Pete Alonso’s potential go-ahead home run was ruled foul in the seventh inning of Wednesday’s game against the New York Yankees, despite Orioles and Yankees broadcasters questioning the call. The crew chief review upheld the initial foul call, leaving the Baltimore Orioles to lose 5-3 and prompting calls for technology reforms in MLB replay systems.
Alonso’s disputed homer and the upheld call
Pete Alonso hit a deep fly ball down the left-field line in the seventh inning with the game tied 3-3. The ball was ruled foul by the on-field umpire, and a crew chief review did not overturn the call. Alonso later stated that he believed the replay center made an error, citing a camera angle showing the ball fair. The Orioles’ dugout also reviewed tracking data on their iPads, which indicated the ball was fair, according to manager Craig Albernaz. The Yankees’ broadcast team, including Michael Kay and David Cone, expressed surprise that the call was not overturned.
Alonso suggested a potential solution to prevent similar controversies: installing tracking technology on foul poles, similar to the pylon cameras used in football to determine goal-line plays. He proposed a laser or camera system that could shoot straight up to provide definitive calls. Orioles manager Craig Albernaz echoed Alonso’s sentiment, questioning why MLB does not utilize available tracking data during challenges.
Replay rules and technology in MLB
MLB’s replay review system requires two camera angles to overturn a call, according to Alonso’s explanation. The only available angle showing the ball’s fair-or-foul status was the one down the foul line, and no second angle was available to confirm the call. This limitation led to the replay center’s decision to uphold the foul call. The Orioles’ starting pitcher, Chris Bassitt, also called for reform in postgame comments.
The controversy highlights ongoing debates about the effectiveness of MLB’s replay system, which has been in place since 2014. While the league has expanded replay capabilities over the years, some argue that the system still lacks the precision of other sports’ tracking technologies. Alonso’s proposal to integrate foul pole cameras or laser systems aligns with broader discussions about enhancing officiating accuracy in baseball.
Reactions from players and broadcasters
Alonso told reporters that he accepted the call but believed it was incorrect. "It is what it is," he said, adding that the current system needs improvement. Albernaz stated that the Orioles’ dugout technology suggested the ball was fair, and he was "really surprised" the call was upheld. The Yankees’ broadcast team openly questioned the decision, with Kay and Cone calling the play close enough to warrant reversal.
The incident has reignited discussions among fans and analysts about the reliability of MLB’s replay review process. Some argue that the league should adopt more advanced tracking systems, while others contend that human error is an inherent part of sports officiating and should be accepted as such.