The Play That Lingered: Examining the Controversial Call in the 2025 World Series
The final out of the 2025 World Series, a play involving Isiah Kiner-Falefa and a close call at home plate, sparked intense debate and scrutiny. While initial reactions focused on whether Kiner-Falefa took an adequate lead, a detailed review by Major League Baseball revealed a more nuanced reality: the Dodgers’ catcher, Will Smith, had his foot on the plate as he received the throw, making Kiner-Falefa out before many believed.
The Game 7 Drama
The Toronto Blue Jays and the Los Angeles Dodgers battled to a dramatic Game 7, tied 4-4 in the bottom of the ninth inning. After Miguel Rojas hit a tying home run for the Dodgers in the top of the ninth, the Blue Jays loaded the bases with one out. Isiah Kiner-Falefa entered as a pinch-runner on third base, representing the potential winning run.
The Controversial Lead and the Play at the Plate
With Daulton Varsho at bat, third base coach Carlos Febles signaled Kiner-Falefa to accept a shorter lead off third base, a decision that drew criticism. Kiner-Falefa’s 7.8-foot lead was among the shortest taken during the World Series, raising questions about whether a more aggressive approach could have led to a different outcome. Varsho grounded the ball to Dodgers second baseman Miguel Rojas, who recovered from a slight stumble to develop a throw home.
The ensuing play at the plate was incredibly close. Dodgers catcher Will Smith caught the ball and briefly had his foot off the plate before re-establishing contact. The initial call was an out, and the Blue Jays challenged the ruling. After review by replay umpire Dan Iassogna, the call stood.
MLB’s Official Ruling
According to the official MLB report, Smith’s foot was touching the plate when the ball contacted his mitt, meaning Kiner-Falefa was out before the debate over Smith’s footwork even began. The report clarified that the distance was not a matter of inches, but approximately three feet. Source: AP News
Perspectives from Key Players
Toronto Blue Jays manager John Schneider admitted to replaying the video countless times, acknowledging the closeness of the play. “I’ve seen that video 3,000 times and 1,500 of them it looks like Will is off the plate. You know what I imply?” Schneider said. Source: AP News
Will Smith stated he didn’t realize how close the play was until reviewing the replay, believing he maintained contact with the plate throughout. He credited Miguel Rojas with an impressive play. Source: AP News
Kiner-Falefa, who later signed with the Boston Red Sox, acknowledged he could have been more aggressive, but explained he was following instructions from the Blue Jays coaching staff to stay close to the bag, fearing a pickoff attempt. Source: AP News
Kiner-Falefa’s Role with the Blue Jays
Prior to the 2025 season, the Blue Jays acquired Isiah Kiner-Falefa off waivers from the Pittsburgh Pirates. Manager John Schneider indicated Kiner-Falefa would provide flexibility off the bench, allowing for earlier pinch-hitting opportunities and coverage for potential injuries, without impacting regular starters like Ernie Clement. Source: Blue Jays Insider Kiner-Falefa also offered to play catcher if needed. Source: Blue Jays Insider
Kiner-Falefa had previously played for the Blue Jays in 2024, recording a .292 batting average with seven home runs and 33 RBIs in 281 plate appearances. Source: Blue Jays Central
Looking Ahead
The controversial call in Game 7 of the 2025 World Series remains a point of discussion, highlighting the fine margins that separate victory from defeat in baseball. While the official ruling confirmed the out, the play serves as a reminder of the impact of split-second decisions and the importance of precise execution in high-stakes moments.