BOSTON — It took just one pitch for Red Sox manager John Farrell to use his challenge Friday against the Baltimore Orioles at Fenway Park.
Orioles outfielder Nick Markakis jumped on John Lackey’s first pitch of the game and sliced a line drive down the left field line. The umpires ruled it landed in fair territory — leading to a double — but Farrell was skeptical and challenged the call.
Several replays seemed to show that the ball landed foul, although one also could make the case it ever so slightly grazed the left field chalk. In any event, the umpires apparently didn’t see enough to overturn the initial call. The ruling on the field was upheld after a review lasting two minutes, 56 seconds.
Farrell already has been outspoken about MLB replay this season, even earning a fine after some critical comments following a replay-related ejection against the New York Yankees last weekend. Friday’s ordeal probably won’t make the Red Sox skipper any happier.
Check out Friday’s controversial play in the video below.
