The San Diego Padres and Los Angeles Dodgers wrapped up a thrilling series in South Korea, with each team taking a win before heading into their official Opening Day next week. The Seoul Series saw exciting home runs, lighthearted broadcasts, and, unfortunately, the season’s first questionable call involving the new pitch timer.
Drama unfolded in the top of the eighth inning on Thursday with the Padres clinging to a one-run lead. Xander Bogaerts stood ready at the plate after a 1-2 count, seemingly prepared for the upcoming pitch. However, before J.P. Feyereisen could even wind up, the umpire abruptly called Bogaerts out for violating the batter’s clock.
This decision left Bogaerts fuming. He was demonstrably set in the batter’s box and appeared ready for several seconds before the umpire intervened. The delay seemed to stem from the catcher adjusting his stance to receive the pitch. If Bogaerts’ readiness was the issue, the umpire should have called it earlier. Replays confirmed the clock hadn’t actually expired when Bogaerts stood set, suggesting the out was unwarranted.
While umpires are also adjusting to the new timer system, last season served as a designated acclimation period. Such errors are concerning, especially in a high-stakes situation during a close game between rivals. Bogaerts’ frustration was entirely reasonable, and his ejection marked a sour note in an otherwise exciting series.
San Diego Padres shortstop Xander Bogaerts is a fresh face on the team this year after signing a massive free-agent deal following a decade with the Boston Red Sox. While the Padres are currently hovering around .500, questions are swirling about whether Bogaerts is having some early buyer’s remorse.
The speculation stems from the Padres’ recent struggles. After a promising start, the team has sputtered, dropping a series to the Washington Nationals last weekend. This comes on the heels of comments attributed to Bogaerts that some are interpreting as frustration.
With this controversial call, baseball’s official season has officially begun, complete with its share of talking points. Here’s to hoping for smoother officiating alongside the competitive spirit the new season promises.
