South Carolina was trailing Clemson by four in the bottom of the eighth with runners on first and second. A clutch hit to right field scored one and moved another runner to third. With one out, they were in a good spot to keep the rally going. But then things unraveled. The next batter hit a potential double play ball. Clemson got the force at second but overthrew first, allowing a run to score. But in the chaos, confusion hit. The runner who was out at second stuck around the area and ended up getting bumped by the second baseman trying to make a play. The umpires ruled interference, and South Carolina suddenly had two outs and no score on the play.
The South Carolina coach came out demanding an explanation. On replay, it showed the runner didn’t immediately clear out after sliding. He tried to duck as the play came back to him but made contact with the fielder anyway. Other examples from MLB footage showed runners typically move out of the way, either sprinting off or ducking quickly. This player lingered, then fumbled as he tried to move, and ended up obstructing the fielder.
After a long discussion and a video review, umpires ruled the run had scored before the interference, so the score counted. But the out stood, and South Carolina lost a key chance to take control late. The clip wrapped with everyone—announcers, crowd, and even players—still trying to figure out exactly what just happened. It was a rare call and a big momentum swing in a close rivalry game.