The Brewers' Unconventional Double Play: A Tale of Misinterpretation and Good Fortune
The 2025 Brewers, a team known for defying logic, showcased their unique brand of baseball magic in Game 1 of the NLCS against the Dodgers. In a thrilling display of strategy and miscommunication, Milwaukee turned a seemingly routine fly ball into a double play, escaping a bases-loaded jam and keeping the game scoreless.
The scene unfolded as follows: With the bases loaded and one out, Max Muncy hit a towering fly ball to the center field wall. Sal Frelick, the center fielder, initially appeared to secure the catch, but the ball slipped through his glove, hit the wall, and then was caught on its descent. This sequence of events sparked confusion among the Dodgers' baserunners, who hesitated, allowing the Brewers to execute a force play at home plate.
The pivotal moment came at third base. Teoscar Hernández, the runner, mistakenly waited too long to break for home, resulting in a force out. Will Smith, the runner at second, also failed to advance to third, leading to another force out. Despite the Dodgers' challenge, the play stood, officially recorded as an 8-6-2 grounded into double play.
The controversy lies in the interpretation of the catch rule. Rule 5.09(a)(1) states that a catch is defined as a fielder securing possession of the ball in flight with their hand or glove, provided they don't use any part of their uniform for assistance. In this case, Frelick's contact with the ball before it hit the wall negated the catch, and his subsequent catch on the way down was a stroke of luck. The Dodgers' manager, Dave Roberts, expressed his frustration, stating, 'I just wanted clarity... They nailed it.'
The Brewers' manager, Pat Murphy, acknowledged the unusual nature of the play, praising Frelick's defensive skills and the team's quick thinking. He emphasized the importance of quick decision-making in baseball, highlighting the fortunate outcome for his team.
Beyond the double play, the Dodgers' struggles continued. They struggled to hit Quinn Priester, with Hernández walking, Freddie Freeman hitting a high fly ball, and Smith and Tommy Edman singling. Max Muncy's fly ball to the center field wall almost resulted in a run, but the Brewers' defense held firm. The Dodgers' struggles continued, and they ultimately won Game 1, surviving a bases-loaded scare in the ninth inning.
This game highlights the unpredictable nature of baseball, where a single play can swing the momentum. The Brewers' unconventional double play serves as a reminder that in the sport of baseball, anything can happen, and sometimes, good fortune plays a significant role.
