The Dodgers were clinging to a one-run lead in the sixth inning when a controversial obstruction call changed the momentum. The Phillies had a runner on second and tried to move him to third with a bunt. The Dodgers made a quick play, but the umpire called obstruction on third baseman Hunter R, saying he blocked the runner’s path without having the ball. Hunter R didn’t get it. He insisted he was just going for the tag. The new rule says a fielder can’t block the baseline without possession of the ball to protect runners, though the specifics remain a bit murky.
The replay showed the fielder had the ball when the contact happened, but the umpire only saw the runner’s foot hit the fielder’s foot in real time and ruled obstruction. Replay isn’t allowed on this type of call, so the play stood. Dodgers manager Dave Roberts came out to support his player but ended up getting ejected. The home plate umpire told Roberts not to follow him, but Roberts did anyway, and that was enough to get tossed. Roberts later said he wasn’t arguing the call, just trying to calm things down.
Both Dodgers and Phillies broadcasters seemed to agree the call was questionable. The play itself was clean and well-executed, but confusion over the rule cost the Dodgers. Frustration showed on both sides and ended with another odd interaction with umpire Hunter Wendelstedt, who has built a reputation for some eyebrow-raising moments this season.