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Dave Roberts’ first ejection of the 2024 season was completely justified.
The controversial play that sparked Roberts’ argument with umpire Hunter Wendelstedt resulted in a five-run outburst by the Philadelphia Phillies, ultimately shifting the momentum of Wednesday night’s game.
The Phillies were trailing 4-3 when Brandon Marsh attempted to bunt with a runner on second and no outs in the sixth inning. Dodgers third baseman Kiké Hernandez made a quick play to field the ball and threw to shortstop Miguel Rojas, who was sprinting to cover third base.
Despite Rojas tagging Alec Bohm’s sliding left foot before he reached the base, umpire Hunter Wendelstedt called the play for obstruction, ruling Bohm safe.
This call led to the Phillies scoring five runs in the inning, taking a 7-4 lead.
After the Dodgers’ 9-4 loss to the Philadelphia Phillies, Roberts stated, “He got it wrong. That’s just a fact. Umpiring is tough. They do a great job. But tonight, that call impacted the outcome of the game.”
Although the Phillies successfully challenged three calls that night, obstruction is not a reviewable play.
Roberts expressed his frustration after the game, calling it “an egregious missed call.”
Rojas also criticized Wendelstedt, stating that the umpire was “looking to be the hero” by making a controversial call.
MLB had instructed umpires to focus on Rule 6.00(h) during the offseason, emphasizing the importance of calling obstruction if a fielder impedes a runner’s path to the base before receiving the ball.
Despite Rojas providing a clear lane for Bohm to slide into third, Wendelstedt interpreted the play differently.
Roberts argued, “We have to allow these great athletes to make plays. The rule was meant to prevent injuries to baserunners. Miggy had a lane once he secured the ball. It’s a baseball play.”
Photo Credit: Jayne Kamin-Oncea-USA TODAY Sports
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