In a mind-boggling turn of events, the 2025 Brewers pulled off a double play that defied logic and left everyone scratching their heads. But was it all legal? Let's unravel this bizarre play that had the Dodgers scratching their helmets in disbelief.
A 404-foot rocket to center field, and the Brewers say 'No runs for you!'
In the first game of the NLCS, the Dodgers were poised to break the scoreless tie with a bases-loaded opportunity. Max Muncy launched a ball to the center field wall, a hit that would typically send runners sprinting home. But this is where the game took a wild twist.
Sal Frelick, the Brewers' center fielder, attempted a catch, but the ball clanked out of his glove, hit the wall, and then miraculously, he secured it on the way down. Here's the catch (pun intended): the ball hitting the wall before the catch meant it was still in play. Umpire Chad Fairchild, with a keen eye, signaled 'no catch,' keeping the game alive.
And this is where the Dodgers' wheels fell off...
Amid the chaos, the Dodgers' baserunners hesitated, assuming an out. But with no catch, the play was still live! The Brewers, quick on their feet, capitalized on the confusion. Catcher William Contreras tagged home for the first force out, then jogged to third for another, stunning the Dodgers.
Teoscar Hernández, the third base runner, found himself in a pickle. He tagged up, but his hesitation cost him. Had he sprinted home immediately, he might've scored. Instead, he was forced out, and so was Will Smith, the runner at second, who never advanced.
Dodgers manager Dave Roberts admitted to the oversight, praising Hernández's knowledge of the rules but acknowledging the split-second mistake. The Dodgers challenged the play, but the call stood.
But here's where it gets controversial...
According to Rule 5.09(a)(1), a catch is only valid if the fielder holds the ball securely without using their uniform. Frelick's initial contact with the ball didn't result in a catch due to the subsequent wall collision. However, the rule also mentions dropping the ball after a collision. Some might argue that Frelick's initial drop after hitting the wall could be interpreted as an out. But the umpires disagreed, and the Brewers' luck held.
Brewers manager Pat Murphy praised his team's quick thinking, acknowledging the play's rarity. The Dodgers' strong hitting in that inning, including Hernández's walk and Freeman's near-homer, was overshadowed by this bizarre turn of events.
The Brewers' unconventional double play didn't decide the game, but it left a lasting impression. With the Dodgers winning Game 1, history suggests they have a 65% chance of taking the series. But will the Brewers' luck hold, or will the Dodgers' bats come alive? Only time will tell.
What's your take on this controversial play? Was the umpire's call clear-cut, or is there room for interpretation? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
