Missed Strike Call Costs Team with Critical Pickoff in World Series Game 3

In a pivotal moment during World Series Game 3, a crucial missed strike call changed the dynamics of the match for the Toronto Blue Jays. With no outs and a 3-1 count in the second inning, pitcher Tyler Glasnow of the Los Angeles Dodgers delivered a high sinker to Daulton Varsho, which many believed to be ball four. However, home-plate umpire Mark Wegner ruled it a strike, leading to confusion on the field.

Critical Moment in the Second Inning

As Varsho, assuming he had walked, began to head towards first base, Bo Bichette, who had reached on a single, started advancing to second. Glasnow quickly threw to first base, where Freddie Freeman tagged out Bichette, showcasing a critical pickoff that shifted the momentum in the inning.

Confusion on the Field

Analysts noted the delayed strike call by Wegner, with former MLB umpire Dale Scott commenting on the pitch’s unclear signal. “Mark has a bit of a slow signal, but he voices the pitch beforehand,” Scott stated during The Athletic’s live coverage. He emphasized the risks runners take when they assume the call of a pitch.

• Daulton Varsho eventually walked after an eight-pitch at-bat.
• He advanced to third base on a hit by Alejandro Kirk.
• Addison Barger struck out, ending the inning with a weak liner caught by the center fielder.

Instead of gaining a lead, the Blue Jays remained scoreless in the inning. Shortly after, the Dodgers capitalized with a home run from Teoscar Hernández.

Manager’s Response

Following the inning, Blue Jays manager John Schneider engaged in a discussion with Wegner about the timing of his calls. Schneider recognized Wegner’s experience but expressed concern over the unclear signal in a high-pressure environment. “I just asked him to be a little bit quicker or provide clarity so everyone knows what’s going on,” he said.

He also reflected on the oddity of the play, noting, “You don’t want that to come back and bite you.” This moment highlighted the challenges that can arise from communication breakdowns in fast-paced situations.

The combination of the missed strike call and subsequent pickoff had significant implications for the Blue Jays’ chances. The pivotal moment serves as a reminder of how a single decision can alter the course of a critical game.