Fan interference call goes Red Sox’ way, erases two Astros runs
The Red Sox were awarded an out on a ball Mookie Betts did not catch.
HOUSTON — Controversy hit Game 4 of the ALCS in the bottom of the first inning on Wednesday night when the Red Sox were awarded an out on a ball Mookie Betts did not catch.
With a runner in first, Jose Altuve sent a Rick Porcello pitch to right field. Betts timed his leap perfectly, but the ball glanced off his glove for an apparent home run.
Mookie Betts was about to rob José Altuve of a home run … until a fan’s hand got in the way.
It was ruled an out on review. pic.twitter.com/NLzAnNJ1vj
— SportsCenter (@SportsCenter) October 18, 2018
But Joe West, the umpire in right field, immediately ruled fan interference and called Altuve out. As Betts jumped, he nearly had the ball in his grasp. But his glove was forced closed by a fan also trying to catch the ball.
West, the umpire crew chief, called for a video review and the call was upheld as the crowd at Minute Maid Park booed loudly. Porcello then finished the inning and the Sox held their 2-0 lead.
