The World Series Game 1 quickly turned into an “ump show” with umpire Carlos Torres making contentious calls right from the first inning. Early in the game, Jazz Chisholm was dealt a questionable strike on a bunt attempt, sparking controversy as the pitch was notably outside what’s usually called a strike zone. Despite his efforts, Chisholm grounded out, ending a potential scoring opportunity for the Yankees.
The drama continued into the next inning when Yankees ace Gerrit Cole was left befuddled by Torres’ calls. A textbook 98 mph fastball was called a ball, only for a similar pitch to be deemed a strike moments later—a decision that puzzled both Cole and his catcher, Austin Wells. The inconsistency didn’t stop; in the third inning, Juan Soto faced another dubious strike call on a pitch outside the zone.
This sequence of contentious decisions prompted former MLB player Eric Hosmer to voice his frustration, branding Torres as unfit for high-stakes games like the World Series. Hosmer criticized the umpire’s track record and stressed the significant impact such calls can have, especially in key moments against players like Soto. His statement underscored the high stakes and sacrifices teams make to reach the finals, suggesting that every call counts.
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