Mets Announcers Didn’t Hold Back on Umpire After Brutal Call in Key Moment

Tim Capurso | May 14, 2024

Phillies outfielder Whit Merrifield attempts to check his swing on a pitch by Mets closer Edwin Diaz during the ninth inning of Philadelphia's 5—4 win over New York at Citi Field on Monday night. / Screengrab Twitter @awfulannouncing

The Philadelphia Phillies came from behind to defeat the New York Mets, 5-4, in 10 innings at Citi Field on Monday night, but Philadelphia's victory was not without controversy.

With two runners on, two outs in the top of the ninth inning and the count 3-and-1, Mets closer Edwin Diaz, attempting to preserve a 4-3 lead, hurled a slider that coaxed a half-swing out of Phillies outfielder Whit Merrifield.

The pitch missed the plate, but Merrifield appeared unable to check his swing. To the astonishment of Mets play-by-play announcer Gary Cohen, first base umpire Ryan Additon ruled it a check swing, meaning that Merrifield had walked and the bases were then loaded for Philadelphia.

Cohen and fellow Mets broadcaster Ron Darling could not believe it.

"You've gotta be kidding me!" - Gary Cohen ⚾️🎙️👮‍♂️ https://t.co/DJG5HR70Wn

— Awful Announcing (@awfulannouncing) May 14, 2024

"You've gotta be kidding me," a frustrated Cohen said. When slow-motion replays showed Merrfield's swing, Mets color analyst Ron Darling couldn't help himself, saying "Ohhh, come on!"

Despite protestations from Mets manager Carlos Mendoza, the umpire's call extended the ninth inning for the Phillies, who tied the game after Alec Bohm was hit by a pitch in the ensuing at-bat. Philadelphia went on to score the go-ahead run in the top of the 10th inning.

It's safe to say that it's becoming increasingly difficult for broadcasters to hide their disdain for umpires' missed calls.