Brian Walsh’s recent blown call has sent shockwaves through the world of baseball, joining the ranks of the most shocking umpire mistakes in MLB history. As fans, we have all witnessed our fair share of questionable calls on the field, but some stand out more than others. In this article, we will take a look at the top 5 worst umpire decisions in baseball history, with Walsh’s call making the list.
1. Don Denkinger’s Blown Call in the 1985 World Series
The 1985 World Series between the Kansas City Royals and the St. Louis Cardinals will forever be remembered for one controversial call made by umpire Don Denkinger. In the ninth inning of Game 6, with the Royals trailing by one run, Jorge Orta of the Royals hit a ground ball to first base. Denkinger called Orta safe, even though replays clearly showed that he was out. This call led to a series of events that ultimately cost the Cardinals the game and the series. Denkinger’s mistake will forever be etched in baseball history as one of the worst umpire calls of all time.
2. Jim Joyce’s Blown Call in Armando Galarraga’s Near Perfect Game
In 2010, Detroit Tigers pitcher Armando Galarraga was one out away from throwing a perfect game against the Cleveland Indians. However, first base umpire Jim Joyce made a controversial call, ruling the runner safe at first base when he was clearly out. This call cost Galarraga his perfect game and sparked a heated debate about the use of instant replay in baseball. Joyce later admitted his mistake and apologized to Galarraga, but the damage had already been done.
3. Angel Hernandez’s Blown Call in the 2017 ALDS
In Game 4 of the 2017 American League Division Series between the New York Yankees and the Cleveland Indians, umpire Angel Hernandez made a crucial call that changed the course of the game. With the Yankees leading 8-3 in the sixth inning, Indians’ Lonnie Chisenhall was hit by a pitch, loading the bases for Cleveland. However, replays showed that the ball had hit the knob of Chisenhall’s bat and should have been ruled a foul ball. Despite the clear evidence, Hernandez refused to overturn the call, leading to a grand slam by the Indians and a comeback win. This call sparked outrage among fans and players alike, with many calling for Hernandez to be removed from the umpiring crew.
4. Jerry Meals’ Blown Call in the 2011 Braves-Pirates Game
In a game between the Atlanta Braves and the Pittsburgh Pirates in 2011, umpire Jerry Meals made a call that left everyone scratching their heads. In the 19th inning of a tied game, Braves’ Julio Lugo attempted to score from third base on a ground ball. Despite being tagged out at home plate, Meals called Lugo safe, giving the Braves the win. Replays clearly showed that Lugo was out, but Meals stood by his call, causing an uproar among fans and players. This call sparked a renewed discussion about the use of instant replay in baseball.
5. Brian Walsh’s Blown Call in the 2021 Red Sox-Astros Game
In a recent game between the Boston Red Sox and the Houston Astros, umpire Brian Walsh made a call that will go down in history as one of the worst umpire decisions in MLB. With the game tied in the ninth inning, Red Sox’ Kiké Hernández hit a ground ball to third base. The throw to first base was clearly in time, but Walsh called Hernández safe, allowing the winning run to score. Replays showed that Hernández was out by a mile, but Walsh’s call stood, giving the Astros the win. This call has sparked a new debate about the use of technology in umpiring and the need for more accountability for umpires.
In conclusion, umpires are human and they are bound to make mistakes. However, some calls have had a bigger impact on the game than others. From Denkinger’s blown call in the 1985 World Series to Walsh’s recent mistake, these umpire decisions will forever be remembered as some of the worst in baseball history. As fans, we can only hope that these mistakes will lead to improvements in the umpiring system and a more fair and accurate game for all.