Infield Fly Rule Controversy in Cubs vs. Brewers NLDS Game 3

In a thrilling NL Division Series Game 3, the Chicago Cubs faced off against the Milwaukee Brewers at Wrigley Field. The game featured high-stakes moments, including a controversial non-call regarding the Infield Fly Rule that left Cubs fans heated.

Game Overview

The match began with both teams displaying offensive prowess. Each team managed to score in the first inning, culminating in five combined runs, with the Cubs scoring four of those.

Key Play: Infield Fly Rule Controversy

During the top of the first, the Brewers quickly advanced two runners against Cubs starter Jameson Taillon. Milwaukee’s catcher, William Contreras, hit a pop-up that landed 60 feet down the first-base line. As the Cubs infielders converged on the ball, the Brewers’ runners advanced without a throw.

The next batter, Sal Frelick, successfully hit a sacrifice fly, allowing one run to score. The pivotal question arose: Why was this play not ruled an infield fly, which would have automatically called Contreras out?

Understanding the Infield Fly Rule

The Infield Fly Rule, as outlined by Major League Baseball, states: “An infield fly is any fair fly ball… which can be caught by an infielder with ordinary effort when first and second or first, second, and third base are occupied, before two men are out.” The term “ordinary effort” is central to the rule.

• In this case, the Cubs defenders struggled with visibility, particularly first baseman Michael Busch, who lost the ball in the sun.
• As a result, the Cubs failed to come close to making a play, leading the umpires to determine that “ordinary effort” was not present.

Umpire Insight

Umpire supervisor Larry Young clarified the decision. “We look for ordinary effort when the ball reaches its apex,” he explained. Based on the situation, the umpires concluded that the play was not catchable.

Cubs’ Manager and Player Reactions

Cubs manager Craig Counsell supported the umpire’s decision, stating, “The umps got it right.” He emphasized that proper application of the Infield Fly Rule requires a player close enough to make a catch, which was not the case here.

Second baseman Nico Hoerner also agreed, noting he had never witnessed a similar scenario in his career.

Game Results

Despite the controversy, the Cubs rallied to score four runs in the bottom of the first inning. They went on to secure a 4-3 victory, a crucial win in their quest to advance in the postseason.

With every run critical in playoff games, the Cubs demonstrated resilience and determination, continuing to fight for their championship aspirations.