Dodgers outfielder Alex Call lost back-to-back ABS challenges in the series finale against the Rockies in LA on Wednesday. Despite the Dodgers winning Game 3 and sealing the series against their NL West rivals, Call’s ABS struggles in the opening inning caught everyone’s attention.
With the Dodgers leading 3-0 in the first, Call was at the plate with a 1-0 count, two outs, and two runners on. He requested a challenge on back-to-back pitches from Rockies starter Gabriel Hughes. Both were called strikes, but Call disagreed. He had a wry smile after losing both challenges, leaving the home side with no challenges for the rest of the game.
Fans were quick to share their reactions to the moment, with many voicing their disbelief.
“Totally inexcusable. The first one was a borderline pitch. The second one was obviously a strike. Until guys start getting consequences for pulling this in the first inning – it will continue to happen,” a fan wrote.
Call finished the game 0-for-3 as the Dodgers narrowly edged out the Rockies 4-3 to seal the series.
Dave Roberts Held Off on Speaking With Alex Call For Burning Both Challenges
After the game, Dodgers skipper Dave Roberts was asked by reporters whether the team would have a talk with Call about burning both challenges in the opening inning. Roberts dismissed the idea of speaking with the outfielder.
“That’s an outlier of a situation. He’s been really dependable and trustworthy,” Roberts said.
The defending World Series champions hold the best record in MLB at 61-33. They sit comfortably atop the NL West, 14 games ahead of the second-place San Diego Padres.
Also read:
College Sports Network has you covered with the latest news, analysis, insights, and trending stories in baseball, tennis, college football, men’s college basketball, women’s college basketball, and college baseball
