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Umpire's call sparks outrage as Red Sox lose to Pirates

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Aug 17, 2026, 9:38 AM

Last updated Aug 17, 2026

Umpire's call sparks outrage as Red Sox lose to Pirates

Summary

During a game against the Pirates at PNC Park on August 16, a controversial strike-out call on Adley Rutschman drew criticism from Red Sox fans. The incident occurred in the sixth inning with Boston trailing 7-3, when a low pitch by Hunter Barco was incorrectly ruled a strike. The Red Sox had exhausted their ABS challenges and could not contest the call, leading to further fan outrage over umpire decisions throughout the game. Rutschman ended the game with an 0-for-3 performance while Connor Wong drove in all of Boston's runs in their 8-3 loss. The series concluded with Pittsburgh securing a crucial win.

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Status Watch

•Adley Rutschman struck out on a low pitch deemed a strike.
•Red Sox had no ABS challenges left to contest the call.
•Connor Wong was the standout player for Boston, driving in all three runs.
•Boston's record stands at 66-58, third in the AL East.
•The team faces a six-game homestand against the Diamondbacks and Giants.

Latest Updates

9:38 AMYahoo Sports — “You Know It’s Bad” – Red Sox Fans Tear Into Umpire After ‘Not Even Close’ Strike-Out Call On Adley Rutschman In Pirates Loss

What they're saying

"
Fans ripped into a wasteful umpiring call and the Red Sox for exhausting their ABS challenges early, which led to DH Adley Rutschman being struck out on a low ball during the series finale against the Pirates at PNC Park on Sunday. The viral moment happened in the top of the sixth, with Boston trailing 7-3.
— Yahoo Sports

Related Teams & Leagues

Boston Red Sox Chicago White Sox Pittsburgh Pirates MLB Baseball