controversy:-aaron-judge-avoided-brewers-double-play-by-sliding-and-blocking-the-ball-with-his-hand-[video]Controversy: Aaron Judge avoided Brewers double play by sliding and blocking the ball with his hand [Video]
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By Miguel Rapetti

Apr 28, 2024, 11:56 PM EDT

Aaron Judge’s great performance this Sunday during the New York Yankees’ 15-5 defeat of the Milwaukee Brewers was key to his team’s victory, but he was also involved in controversy after in one play he avoided a double play by the home team and which was key to the rally that the Mules put together in the sixth inning.

During the beginning of the sixth inning and with the game tied 4-4, Judge was on first base seconds after receiving a walk and with Alex Verdugo on turn. However, the Mexican’s at-bat culminated in a grounder to second base that marked a routine double play.

Despite how easy the play seemed, it ended with only one out after The Judge avoided the double play by stretching his arm up at the moment of the sweep and the ball hit his left hand.

The action sparked a collective complaint from the entire Brewers infield because they believed that Verdugo should be put out due to Judge’s interference.

After the referees’ meeting, they finally declared out on a selection play and Verdugo was able to remain on the first base.

But the most striking thing about the situation is that after Judge’s controversial play and Verdugo’s stay at first base, the Yankees put together a six-run rally that was ultimately key to taking the win and the series as visitors.

Although the play quickly went viral on social media and many classified Judge as a cheater for trying to prevent the natural flow of the ball, other Internet users discovered that Judge’s slide into second is common and he has done it many other times in his career. but it is the first time that it prevents the rival from completing the two outs.

After the game, Judge spoke to the media and explained that this type of slip is customary for him and that he was more worried about getting injured thanks to the strength in the arm of infielder Willy Adames.

“That had never happened before in my life. I’ve been sliding like this for years. I was more worried about the big arm of [Willy] Adames. I thought I broke my finger. There was no concern on my part. [sobre la interferencia]. I’ve been doing that for years,” the Yankee outfielder said.

As this is an unusual move, we will have to wait to see if MLB speaks out on the matter and even presents some regulation to avoid this type of sweep.

Keep reading:

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