Eric Thayer/AP
In a high-stakes game against the Philadelphia Phillies, Los Angeles Dodgers manager Dave Roberts found himself at the center of controversy following a call from the umpire that he believes cost his team the game. The Dodgers were leading 4-3 in the sixth inning when a critical obstruction call against shortstop Miguel Rojas allowed the Phillies to spark a rally, ultimately leading to a 9-4 loss for the Dodgers. Dave Roberts’ criticism of the call from umpire highlights the frustration and debate surrounding the game-changing decision.
The Play That Changed Everything
The play in question occurred when Phillies’ Alec Bohm attempted to advance to third base. Dodgers’ third baseman Enrique Hernandez fielded a bunt and threw the ball to Rojas, who appeared to tag Bohm out. However, third-base umpire Hunter Wendelstedt ruled that Rojas had impeded Bohm’s path before securing the ball, calling him safe.
Roberts Ejected After Heated Argument
Roberts, visibly frustrated, argued the call and was ejected from the game—his first ejection of the season. He later described the call as an “egregious missed call,” expressing that it fundamentally altered the momentum of the game. The Phillies capitalized on the call, scoring five runs in the inning, including a three-run homer by Kyle Schwarber.
Umpire’s Explanation Fuels Further Controversy
The Dodgers’ frustrations were further compounded by the explanation given by crew chief Marvin Hudson. Hudson cited a new interpretation of the obstruction rule that mandates a fielder must have possession of the ball before blocking a base. Roberts argued that Rojas had provided Bohm with a lane and that the call contradicted the spirit of the rule, which is meant to prevent dangerous collisions rather than penalize legitimate baseball plays.
Dodgers Face a Shrinking NL West Lead
Rojas, echoing his manager’s sentiments, suggested that the umpire was “looking to be the hero” by making a call that he believed changed the narrative of the game. The loss was particularly bitter for the Dodgers, as it contributed to a shrinking lead in the NL West, with the San Diego Padres and Arizona Diamondbacks closing in.
