A questionable strikeout call played a role in the Chicago Cubs being cost a chance to sweep the Tampa Bay Rays. It's the latest episode of "The Ump Show."
It's every baseball fan's least favorite show. Of course, we're talking about "The Ump Show," where controversial calls or the actions of umpires frustrate fans, players, and managers. We have yet another episode of "The Ump Show," this time taking place in Wrigley Field.
The Chicago Cubs stunned the league by winning their first two games against the Tampa Bay Rays. One of those games saw Marcus Stroman throw a complete game, one-hitter. On Wednesday, the team had the chance to complete the sweep.
In the bottom of the eighth inning, the Cubs trailed 4-3 but had two runners in scoring position with two outs on the board. Outfielder Ian Happ stepped up to the plate with the chance to play the hero. But on a 3-2 count, Rays reliever Jason Adam threw a 77.8 mph sweeper that landed outside of the strike zone.
Instead of a walk to load the bases, Happ was called out by home plate umpire Will Little.
Ump Show costs Cubs opportunity to sweep Rays
An apparent walk was decided to be a strikeout by Little, and that officially ended the Cubs' rally that inning. But, there was hope in the bottom of the ninth.
Chicago had the bases loaded with one out on the board after Mike Tauchman walked, Edwin Rios was hit by a pitch, and Patrick Wisdom reached first base on a fielder's choice and a throwing error by Isaac Paredes. But, Miles Mastrobuoni struck out swinging and Yan Gomes flew out to left field to end the game.
The Cubs missed out on the sweep, but they were still able to take their series against the best team in the American League. But, that questionable strike three call is going to linger amongst the Cubs fanbase, where they will ask, "What if 'The Ump Show' didn't end a rally in the eighth against the Rays?"
We wait and see when "The Ump Show" strikes next.
