Balk or Ball? When An Umpire Should Ignore a Balk

When is a balk not a balk? Umpires correctly called A's pitcher Jeffrey Springs for a no-stop balk during a 3-2 pitch to Mariners batter Julio Rodríguez, but awarding baserunner R1 Ben Williamson second base was only half of the equation. Instead of Rodríguez awarded first base on ball four (the pitch was low), the crew returned the batter to the plate, where he proceeded to strike out swinging on the next pitch.

We first note Official Baseball Rule 6.02(a)(13) pertaining to balks, which states, "If there is a runner, or runners, it is a balk when the pitcher delivers the pitch from Set Position without coming to a stop."

Because pitcher Springs failed to come to a complete stop while in Set Position, as in OBR 5.07(a)(2), 1B Umpire John Tumpane was correct to call out "balk" when the infraction occurred.

OBR 6.02(a) continues, specifying the penalty for a balk violation: "The ball is dead, and each runner shall advance one base without liability to be put out, unless the batter reaches first on a hit, an error, a base on balls, a hit batter, or otherwise, and all other runners advance at least one base, in which case the play proceeds without reference to the balk."

Although the ball ultimately becomes dead on a balk, if the pitcher pitches, that pitch may still count, as long as it results in the batter-runner reaching first base and all other runners advancing at least one base.

In this situation, the pitch missed low for ball four, which meant that runner R1 Williamson would have been forced to advance to second base, by virtue of batter Rodríguez becoming a runner on the base-on-balls.

But instead of applying the "play proceeds without reference to the balk" portion of the penalty due to both batter and runner advancing at least one base, the umpires enforced the base award for the runner and returned the batter to home plate, where he proceeded to strike out instead of taking his base.

Video as follows:

MLB Ejections 013-14 - Chris Conroy (1-2; TOR x2)

HP Umpire Chris Conroy ejected Blue Jays pitcher Kevin Gausman in the botom of the 3rd and manager John Schneider (balls/strikes; QOCY) in the top of the 5th inning of the #BlueJays-#Yankees game. In the 3rd, Yankees batter Jasson Domínguez flied out, Oswaldo Cabrera walked, Ben Rice walked, Aaron Judge singled, Cody Bellinger hit an RBI sacrifice fly, Paul Goldschidt walked, Jazz Chisholm walked (RBI), Anthony Volpe walked (RBI), and Austin Wells doubled (3 RBI). Gausman was ejected arguing balls and strikes during a subsequent pitching change. Replays indicate of the callable pitches in the half inning thrown prior to ejection, Conroy officiated 30-of-31 correctly (97% accuracy), the call was correct.

In the 5th, with none out and none on, Blue Jays batter Guerrero took a 1-0 changeup from Yankees pitcher Max Fried for a called first strike. Replays indicate pitch was located over the over the outer edge of home plate and at the hollow of the knee (px 0.66, pz 1.69 [sz_bot 1.60 / RAD 1.48]), the call was correct.* At the time of both ejections, the Yankees were leading, 6-1. The Yankees ultimately won the contest, 11-2.

These are Chris Conroy (98)'s 1st and 2nd ejections of 2025.

*This pitch was located 3.04 horizontal and 3.48 vertical inches from being deemed incorrect.

These are the 13th and 14th ejection reports of the 2025 MLB regular season.

This is the 6th player ejection of 2025. Prior to ejection, Gausman gave up 5 BB, 6 ER in the 3rd inning.

This is the 6th manager ejection of 2025. Ejection Tally: 6 Managers, 2 Coach, 6 Players.

This is Toronto's 1/2nd ejection of 2025, 1st in the AL East (NYY, TOR 2; BAL, TB 1; BOS 0).

This is Kevin Gausman's 1st ejection since August 4, 2024 (Laz Diaz; QOC = Y [Balls/Strikes]).

This is John Schneider's 1st ejection since Sept 22, 2024 (Nate Tomlinson; QOC = Y [Balls/Strikes]).

This is Chris Conroy's 1st ejection since September 17, 2024 (Joe Espada; QOC = N-c [Fair/Foul]).

Wrap: Toronto Blue Jays vs New York Yankees (Game 1), 4/27/25 | Video as follows:

MLB Ejections 175-6 - Conroy, Miller (HOU x2)

HP Umpire Brennan Miller ejected Astros 2B Jose Altuve and 1B Umpire Chris Conroy ejected Astros manager Joe Espada (fair ball call; QOCN) in the top of the 9th inning of the #Astros-#Padres game. With two out and one on, Astros batter Altuve hit a 1-1 sinker from Padres pitcher Robert Suarez on the ground to third baseman Manny Machado to first baseman Donovan Solano, ruled a fair ball by HP Umpire Miller. Replays indicate that after contacting Altuve's bat, the batted ball touched Altuve's foot before bounding into fair territory, the call was incorrect. At the time of the ejection, the game was tied, 3-3. The Astros ultimately won the contest, 4-3, in 10 innings.

This is Chris Conroy (98)'s 2nd ejection of 2024.

This is Brennan Miller (55)'s 4th ejection of 2024.

Related Ejection: MLB Ejection 102 - James Jean (1; Jose Altuve) (6/30/24).

Official Baseball Rule 5.09(a)(7): "If the batter is in a legal position in the batter’s box, see Rule 5.04(b)(5), and, in the umpire’s judgment, there was no intention to interfere with the course of the ball, a batted ball that strikes the batter or their bat shall be ruled a foul ball."

Fair/Foul in the Infield is not presently a reviewable play.

These are the 175th and 176th ejection reports of the 2024 MLB regular season.

This is the 87th manager ejection of 2024.

This is the 59th player ejection of 2024. Ejection Tally: 87 Managers, 29 Coaches, 59 Players.

This is Houston's 12/13th ejection of 2024, 1st in the AL West (HOU 13; OAK 8; SEA 7; LAA, TEX 6).

This is Jose Altuve's 2nd ejection of 2024, 1st since June 30 (James Jean; QOC = N [Fair/Foul]).

This is Joe Espada's 5th ejection of 2024, 1st since Sept 5 (Brian O'Nora; QOC = U [Replay Review]).

This is Brennan Miller's 4th ejection of 2024, 1st since July 1 (Pat Murphy; QOC = Y-c [Base Path]).

This is Chris Conroy's 2nd ejection of 2024, 1st since July 21 (Bob Melvin; QOC = U [USC-NEC]).

Wrap: Houston Astros vs San Diego Padres, 9/17/24 | Video as follows:

MLB Ejection 122 - Chris Conroy (1; Bob Melvin)

3B Umpire Chris Conroy ejected Giants manager Bob Melvin (arguing prior games' calls during the pre-game plate meeting) prior to the top of the 1st inning of the #Giants-#Rockies game. During the pre-game plate meeting and lineup card exchange, Melvin presented the lineup cards on behalf of San Francisco and was ejected shortly thereafter for arguing calls and plays from prior games in the series. At the time of the ejection, the game was tied, 0-0. The Giants ultimately won the contest, 3-2.

This is Chris Conroy (98)'s 1st ejection of 2024.

This is the 122nd ejection of the 2024 MLB regular season.

This is the 60th manager ejection of 2024. Ejection Tally: 60 Managers, 17 Coaches, 45 Players.

This is San Francisco's 6th ejection of 2024, T-1st in the NL West (SD, SF 6; ARI 5; COL 3; LAD 0).

This is Bob Melvin's 4th ejection of 2024, 1st since June 17 (Manny Gonzalez; QOC = N [Balls/Strikes]).

This is Chris Conroy's 1st ejection since August 24, 2021 (Joc Pederson; QOC = Y [Check Swing]).

Wrap: San Francisco Giants vs Colorado Rockies, 7/21/24 | Video as follows:

Calls of the Month - May 2024

Our Top 5 Calls of the Month for May 2024 include several close calls at both home plate and on the bases, with umpires who stick with the play to get the call right.

5) Cory Blaser gets his nose in there for a call at the plate.

4) Doug Eddings gets knocked down, but gets back up to later in the game nail an awkward out call.

3) Chris Conroy takes a "Reverse Force" (tag-up appeal play) at 1st.

2) Chad Fairchild no call at the plate great calmness.... and call.

1) Adam Hamari "The Hammer" with a confirmed catcher's interference call on a check swing.

Video as follows:

Pirates & Cubs Ends on Confirmed Safe Call at Plate When Runner Knocks Ball Out of Catcher's Hand

Saturday's Pirates-Cubs game ended on a walk-off slide by Cody Bellinger into home plate despite Pittsburgh catcher Joey Bart appearing to tag the runner...only to drop the ball when Bellinger knocked the ball out of Bart's hand. Replay Review confirmed HP Umpire Chris Conroy's safe call, leaving some Yinzers to wonder how replay could confirm a safe call only made because of a dropped ball...which only was dropped because the runner knocked it out of the catcher's hand.

With one out and one on (R2), Cubs batter Christopher Morel hit a 3-2 splitter from Pirates pitcher David Bednar on a line drive to center fielder Michael A Taylor, who threw home to catcher Joey Bart as Cubs baserunner R2 Bellinger slid into home plate. HP Umpire Conroy called Bellinger safe, a call challenged by Pirates manager Derek Shelton and ultimately affirmed via Replay Review.

Replay Review relied on the definition of tag, which includes this passage: "It is not a tag, however, if simultaneously or immediately following his touching a base or touching a runner, the fielder drops the ball. In establishing the validity of the tag, the fielder shall hold the ball long enough to prove that they have complete control of the ball." The phrase "holding the ball securely and firmly in their hand or glove" is also used. With the ball on the ground, Replay would determine the full process of "tag" was not completed and, thus, the tag was not valid.

The Official Baseball Rules, regarding offensive interference, specify in OBR 5.09(b)(3) that a runner is out when "they intentionally interfere with a thrown ball; or hinder a fielder attempting to make a play on a batted ball." OBR 6.01(a)(10) agrees ("fails to avoid a fielder who is attempting to field a batted ball, or intentionally interferes with a thrown ball"), and this establishes a right-of-way hierarchy we've been over several times before.

During a batted ball, a fielder has the right to field it; however, the runner has the right to run the bases at any other time.

The standard for a non-batted ball situation is intentional interference, or, the runner must commit an intentional act to be called for an interference violation. Unintentional interference only applies to batted balls (and potentially bona fide slides on force plays, collisions at home plate, runner's lane, and batter's interference), but your garden variety tag play on the bases falls under the so-called intentional or "willful and deliberate" standard.

HP Umpire Conroy did not rule interference initially, just that the runner was safe because the catcher dropped the ball.

Because non-slide rule or HP collision interference is not reviewable, the Replay Official was unable to consider the element of Bellinger's swipe knocking the ball out of Bart's hand. Even so, it would have to be an intentional act to be interference.

Accordingly, Replay Review ruled that because Bart failed to complete the process of the tag with full control and possession of the ball, the runner was safe: call confirmed.

Did Replay get this questionable Cubs catcher caper (confirmed) right? | Video as follows:

MLB Ejection 149 - Chris Conroy (2; Joc Pederson)

HP Umpire Chris Conroy ejected Braves CF Joc Pederson (check swing strike three call) in the bottom of the 4th inning of the #Yankees-#Braves game. With two out and two on (R1, R2), Pederson attempted to check his swing on a 2-2 fastball from Yankees pitcher Andrew Heaney as the pitched ball struck Pederson's hands for a dead ball strike, ruled a swing by HP Umpire Conroy. Play reviewed and affirmed by the UEFL Appeals Board, the call was correct. At the time of the ejection, the game was tied, 2-2. The Yankees ultimately won the contest, 5-4.

This is Chris Conroy (98)'s 2nd ejection of 2021.

Chris Conroy now has ? points in the UEFL Standings (4 Previous + 2 MLB + ? Call = ?).

Crew Chief Bill Welke now has ? points in Crew Division (1 Previous + ? Call = ?).

This is the 149th ejection report of the 2021 MLB regular season.

This is the 60th player ejection of 2021. Prior to ejection, Pederson was 0-2 (2 SO) in the contest.

This is Atlanta's 1st ejection of 2021, 5th in the NL East (PHI 8; MIA, NYM 7; WAS 3; ATL 1).

This is Joc Pederson's 1st ejection since Sept 24, 2018 (Joe West; QOC = Y [Balls/Strikes]).

This is Chris Conroy's 2nd ejection of 2021, 1st since May 19 (Dave Martinez; QOC = Y [RLI]).

Wrap: New York Yankees vs. Atlanta Braves, 8/24/21 | Video as follows:

MLB Ejection 048 - Chris Conroy (1; Dave Martinez)

HP Umpire Chris Conroy ejected Nationals manager Dave Martinez (runner's lane interference call; QOCY) in the top of the 7th inning of the #Nationals-#Cubs game. With none out and none on, Nationals batter Trea Turner swung at and missed a 1-2 fastball from Cubs pitcher Tommy Nance, the pitched ball evading catcher Willson Contreras for an uncaught third strike before Contreras threw to first base in an attempt to retire batter-runner Turner. Replays indicate Turner failed to legally enter the runner's lane by virtue of running inside (to the left of) the foul line, and in doing so interfered with Cubs 1B PJ Higgins taking the throw at first base in accordance with rule 5.09(a)(11), the call was correct.* Play was reviewed and AFFIRMED by the UEFL Appeals Board (5-3), the call was correct. At the time of the ejection, the Nationals were leading, 4-2. The Nationals ultimately won the contest, 4-3.

This is Chris Conroy (96)'s 1st ejection of 2021.
Chris Conroy now has 6 points in the UEFL Standings (2 Prev + 2 MLB + 2 Correct Call = 6).
Crew Chief Chris Conroy now has 3 points in Crew Division (2 Previous + 1 Correct Call = 3).

*Official Baseball Rule 5.09(a)(11) states, in part, that a batter is out when—"In running the last half of the distance from home base to first base, while the ball is being fielded to first base, he runs outside (to the right of) the three-foot line, or inside (to the left of) the foul line, and in the umpire’s judgment in so doing interferes with the fielder taking the throw at first base, in which case the ball is dead...The batter-runner is permitted to exit the three-foot lane by means of a step, stride, reach or slide in the immediate vicinity of first base for the sole purpose of touching first base."

Related Ejection: MLB Ejection P1 - Sam Holbrook (3; Dave Martinez) (10/29/19).

Related Analysis: World Series Interference - Blame the Rule, not the Umpire (10/30/19).

This is the 48th ejection report of the 2021 MLB regular season.

This is the 25th manager ejection of 2021.

This is Washington's 1st ejection of 2021, 4th in the NL East (PHI 3; MIA, NYM 2; WAS 1; ATL 0).

This is Dave Martinez's 1st ejection since October 29, 2019 (Sam Holbrook; QOC = Y [Run Ln INT]).

This is Chris Conroy's 1st ejection since July 16, 2019 (Gabe Kapler; QOC = U [Warnings]).

Wrap: Washington Nationals vs. Chicago Cubs, 5/19/21 | Video as follows:

Injury Scout - Conroy Hit in Hand, Returns

After HP Umpire Chris Conroy was hit in the hand by a foul ball, he briefly left his game in Cincinnati, only to return as the third base umpire.

In the bottom of the 1st inning of the Royals-Reds game, Reds batter Shogo Akiyama fouled a 2-1 sinker from Royals pitcher Brad Keller into Conroy's right ring finger, drawing blood as Conroy left the game, replaced behind home plate by 2B Umpire Jeff Nelson.

1B Umpire Larry Vanover and 3B Umpire CB Bucknor officiated the field in a three-person alignment until Conroy, who reportedly suffered a fractured finger, returned in the 4th inning as the third base umpire, with Bucknor assuming second base duties.

Relevant Injury History: There is no recent relevant injury history.

Last Game: August 12 | Return to Play: August 12 | Time Absent: 2 Innings | Video as follows:

MLB Ejections 119-120 - Chris Conroy (2-3; PHI)

HP Umpire Chris Conroy ejected Phillies pitcher Hector Neris (throwing at Dodgers batter David Freese) and Manager Gabe Kapler (arguing Neris' ejection/warnings) in the top of the 9th inning of the Dodgers-Phillies game. With none out and none on, Neris walked Dodgers batter Max Muncy and surrendered a single to AJ Pollock, struck out Corey Seager, and gave up a home run to Max Beaty. David Freese then took a first-pitch inside splitter followed by a 1-0 fastball, resulting in a hit-by-pitch. Replays indicate the pitch was located inside and struck Freese on his upper back as he attempted to duck out of the way; warnings had not previously been issued, the call was irrecusable.* At the time of the ejection, the Dodgers were leading, 8-6. The Phillies ultimately won the contest, 9-8.

These are Chris Conroy's second and third ejections of 2019.
Chris Conroy now has 1 point in the UEFL Standings (-3 Prev + 2*[2 MLB + 0 QOCU] = 1).
Crew Chief Bill Miller now has 11 points in Crew Division (9 Previous + 2*[1 QOCU] = 11).
*This is the second consecutive LAD-PHI game with an intent-HBP ejection.
Related Post: MLB Ejection 117 - Doug Eddings (2; Yacksel Rios) (7/15/19).

These are the 119th and 120th ejection reports of the 2019 MLB regular season.
This is the 51st player ejection of 2019. Prior to ejection, Neris' line was 0.1, 3 ER, HR.
This is the 63rd Manager ejection of 2019.
This is Philadelphia's 5/6th ejection of 2019, 1st in the NL East (PHI 6; ATL, NYM, WAS 5; MIA 3).
This is Hector Neris' first career MLB ejection.
This is Gabe Kapler's 3rd ejection of 2019, 1st since June 25 (Joe West; QOC = U [Warnings]).
This is Chris Conroy's 2/3rd ejection of 2019, 1st since June 21 (Gerardo Parra; QOC = N [Balls/Strikes]).

Wrap: Los Angeles Dodgers vs. Philadelphia Phillies, 7/16/19 | Video as follows:

MLB Ejection 097 - Chris Conroy (1; Gerardo Parra)

HP Umpire Chris Conroy ejected Nationals PH Gerardo Parra (strike three call; QOCN) in the bottom of the 8th inning of the Braves-Nationals game. With one out and none on, Parra took a 3-2 fastball from Braves pitcher Jacob Webb for a called third strike. Replays indicate the pitch was located off the outer edge of home plate and above the hollow of the knee (px -1.01, pz 1.73 [sz_bot 1.54]), the call was incorrect.* At the time of the ejection, the Nationals were leading, 4-3. The Nationals ultimately won the contest, 4-3.

This is Chris Conroy (98)'s first ejection of 2019.
Chris Conroy now has -3 points in the UEFL Standings (-1 Prev + 2 MLB - 4 Incorrect Call = -3).
Crew Chief Bill Miller now has 8 points in Crew Division (8 Previous + 0 Incorrect Call = 8).
*UEFL Rule 6-2-b-1 (Kulpa Rule): |0| < STRIKE < |.748| < BORDERLINE < |.914| < BALL.
*This pitch was located 1.152 horizontal inches from being deemed a correct call.

This is the 97th ejection report of the 2019 MLB regular season.
This is the 41st player ejection of 2019. Prior to ejection, Parra was 0-1 (SO) in the contest.
This is Washington's 5th ejection of 2019, T-1st in the NL East (ATL, WAS 5; NYM 3; MIA, PHI 1).
This is Gerardo Parra's 1st ejection since April 11, 2018 (Brian Gorman; QOC = U [Fighting]).
This is Chris Conroy's 1st ejection since August 16, 2017 (Joe Maddon; QOC = Y [Check Swing]).

Wrap: Atlanta Braves vs. Washington Nationals, 6/21/19 | Video as follows:

Tmac's Teachable Moments - Video Analysis of Four Plays

This edition of Tmac's Teachable Moments is an audio commentary with video of four Replay Review plays that occurred in MLB. First, we see Ben May patiently time an out call on a caught stealing at second base, then 1B Umpire Carlos Torres makes sure a fly ball is caught, James Hoye officiates a banger at first, and Chris Conroy anticipates a potential play at third base and is in great position to rule on a no-look tag attempt.

Podcast Video Minisode 4VM is a Teachable.

Introducing Audio Commentary: The following Teachable is available in audio form via this post and also via our RSS setup for The Plate Meeting Podcast. This episode is a Video Minisode and is labeled Episode 4VM.

Play 1: Our first play features 2B Umpire Ben May officiating a tag play during a stolen base attempt in Texas. Our runner, wearing the protective sliding "oven mitt" over his hand, appears to slide headfirst directly into the fielder's foot, which is guarding the base.

Sidebar: Because the fielder has the ball, there is no "obstruction" conversation to be had.

Watch May wait to make a call as he gets himself a good look as to whether the runner was able to reach the base ahead of the tag. After running the play through and confirming what he has seen, May signals the out, which is affirmed via Replay Review.

Carlos Torres observes a catch in Houston.

Play 2: Next up is 1B Umpire Carlos Torres on a line drive to right field, caught by our Diamondbacks right fielder in Houston during a tumbling head-over-heels catch that takes his glove to all sides, meaning that 2B Umpire Mark Carlson may potentially need to help out as the glove and bare hand holding onto the baseball rotated out of Torres' sight.

Like May in Arlington, Torres in Houston waits to make a call, appears to take a quick look at his crewmate to make sure the ball hasn't fallen out, and finally comes up with the out. This call is confirmed on review thanks in great part to the multiple replay angles that allow us to see that the fielder possessed the ball the entire time, and that it did not hit the grass. On the field, we're only allowed one angle in realtime, and potentially—by visually communicating with a crewmate—an additional angle that can help settle the call.

James Hoye signals safe on the play at first.

Play 3: 1B Umpire James Hoye has to officiate three aspects of a play within a matter of three tenths of a second. First, he has a fair/foul decision on a batted ball, then he has a catch/no catch consideration, and finally (the most challenging call), he has to determine whether the runner made it back to first base before being put out by the fielder's tag attempt on what we call a "reverse force" play in our replay shorthand.

The play explodes in close quarters at first base and with so many things happening at once, it's important to see the big picture. The most important call here will be the safe/out on the tag attempt, and it is vital to stay engaged throughout the play by anticipating the tag issue before it happens. Hoye does this here, is able to exclude the mitt laces from consideration of out/safe, and comes up with a quick safe call that is affirmed after review.

Chris Conroy moves to see the tag play.

Play 4: Finally, 3B Umpire Chris Conroy in San Diego prepares for a potential play at third base on an infield grounder up the right foul line. With a runner at second, we know there is no force play at third, such that the fielder will have to tag the runner if the defense does decide to try for the out at third base. That's precisely what happens, and Conroy moves into position, looking for the keyhole angle that best serves him in being able to see the important aspect of the play: did the runner get to third base and did the fielder tag the runner?

This anticipation and preparedness ahead of the play allows Conroy and the other umpires to best position themselves for these close plays, and to time their calls just right so as to support the highest level of accuracy.

Ben May (Play 1) stays with the tag at second.

In Conclusion, it all starts with your starting position. Where will you want to be at the crack of the bat—or a potential pickoff play—and where will you need to go on a mile-a-minute play like Hoye's in St. Louis? Second, be prepared for anything. If you're the third base umpire and there's a runner on second, be like Conroy and assume the next play will be at third base, even if that probability is realistically low...it still could happen, just like it did in San Diego. Finally, call what you see after you make darn well sure of what it is that you did see. Whether that means waiting to replay the sequence before coming up with a confident call like May or taking a quick peek at your partner like Torres, make sure of what you have and practice good timing when making your call.

Until next time, Happy Umpiring, Everyone!

Video as follows:

MLB Ejection 139 - Chris Conroy (3; Joe Maddon)

1B Umpire Chris Conroy ejected Cubs Manager Joe Maddon (check swing dead ball strike call) in the bottom of the 9th inning of the Reds-Cubs game. With none out and two on (R1, R2), Cubs batter Ben Zobrist attempted to check his swing/bunt on a 0-1 fastball from Reds pitcher Wandy Peralta, resulting in the pitched ball hitting Zobrist's knee. Play was reviewed and adjudicated by the UEFL Appeals Board (6-3-0), the call was correct. At the time of the ejection, the game was tied, 6-6. The Cubs ultimately won the contest, 7-6.

This is Chris Conroy (98)'s third ejection of the 2017 MLB regular season.
Chris Conroy now has 9 points in the UEFL Standings (5 Prev + 2 MLB + 2 Correct Call = 9).
Crew Chief Ron Kulpa now has 0 points in Crew Division (-1 Previous + 1 Correct Call = 0).

This is the 139th ejection report of 2017.
This is the 69th Manager ejection of 2017.
This is Chicago-NL's 3rd ejection of 2017, 5th in the NL Central (CIN, MIL 5; PIT, STL 4; CHC 3).
This is Joe Maddon's 2nd ejection of 2017, 1st since June 16 (Jeff Kellogg; QOC = Y-C [Replay Review]).
This is Chris Conroy's 3rd ejection of 2017, 1st since July 24 (Dave Righetti; QOC = Y [Balls/Strikes]).

Wrap: Cincinnati Reds vs. Chicago Cubs, 8/16/17 | Video as follows:

MLB Ejections 104-5 - Chris Conroy (1-2; SF x2)

HP Umpire Chris Conroy ejected Giants Manager Bruce Bochy (ball two call; QOCY) in the top of the 2nd and Pitching Coach Dave Righetti (ball four call; QOCN) in the top of the 9th inning of the Pirates-Giants game. In the 2nd, ith two out and two on, Pirates batter Andrew McCutchen took a 1-0 curveball from Giants pitcher Matt Cain for a called ball before hitting a home run on an ensuing 3-1 curveball. Replays indicate the pitch was located over the outer half of home plate and above the midpoint (px .427, pz 3.227 [sz_top 3.260 / MOE 3.177]), the call was correct. At the time of the ejection, the Pirates were leading, 6-0. In the 9th, with two out and two on, Pirates batter Francisco Cervelli took a 3-2 cutter from Giants pitcher Kyle Crick for a called fourth ball. Replays indicate the pitch was located off the outer edge of home plate and thigh-high (px .781, pz 1.932), the call was correct. At the time of the ejection, the Pirates were leading, 10-3. The Pirates ultimately won the contest, 10-3.

This is Chris Conroy (98)'s first, second ejection of the 2017 MLB regular season.
Chris Conroy now has 5 point in the UEFL Standings (-3 Prev + 2*[2 MLB + 2 Correct Call] = 5).
Crew Chief Jerry Meals now has -2 points in Crew Division (-4 Previous + 2 Correct Call = -2).
*UEFL Rule 6-2-b-1 (Kulpa Rule): |0| < STRIKE < |.748| < BORDERLINE < |.914| < BALL.

This is the 104th, 105th ejection of 2017.
This is the 56th Manager ejection of 2017.
This is San Francisco's 3rd/4th ejection of 2017, T-2nd in the NL West (LAD 6; COL, SF 4; ARI, SD 2).
This is Bruce Bochy's 2nd ejection of 2017, 1st since June 16 (Gary Cederstrom; QOC = N [Balls/Strikes]).
This is Dave Righetti's first ejection since May 5, 2007 (Jim Reynolds; QOC = U [Balls/Strikes]).
This is Chris Conroy's first ejection since September 19, 2016 (Josh Donaldson; QOC = N [Balls/Strikes]).

Wrap: Pittsburgh Pirates vs. San Francisco Giants, 7/24/17 | Videos (x2) as follows:

Catcher Tiff Clears Benches in Rockies-Pirates Game

Benches emptied in Pittsburgh after Francisco Cervelli's HBP and spat with Rockies catcher Tony Wolters.

With none out and Andrew McCutchen aboard at first base in the bottom of the 5th inning of Wednesday's Rockies-Pirates game, Cervelli took a first-pitch fastball from Rockies pitcher German Marquez, resulting in a bench- and bullpen-clearing incident when Cervelli's catcher counterpart, Wolters, engaged him in a verbal dispute.

Replays indicate the pitch struck Cervelli on his upper left arm; it was the first hit batsman of the game and no warnings were issued by HP Umpire Chris Conroy, who coincidentally will work his first All-Star Game next month in Miami.

At the time of the bench clearing incident, the Rockies were leading, 3-0. Colorado ultimately on the contest, 5-1. Video via "Read More"

MLB Ejection 171 - Chris Conroy (2; Josh Donaldson)

HP Umpire Chris Conroy ejected Blue Jays 3B Josh Donaldson for arguing a strike three call in the top of the 7th inning of the Blue Jays-Mariners game. With none out and one on, Donaldson took a 2-2 fastball from Mariners pitcher Drew Storen for a called third strike. Replays indicate the pitch was located over the inner half of home plate and below the hollow of the knee (px .607, pz 1.429 [sz_bot 1.620 / MOE 1.537]), the call was incorrect. At the time of the ejection, the Blue Jays were leading, 3-0. The Blue Jays ultimately won the contest, 3-2.

This is Chris Conroy (98)'s second ejection of the 2016 MLB regular season.
Chris Conroy now has -4 points in the UEFL Standings (-2 Previous + 2 MLB - 4 Incorrect Call = -4).
Crew Chief Jerry Meals now has -10 points in Crew Division (-10 Previous + 0 Incorrect Call = -10).

This is the 171st ejection report of the 2016 regular season.
This is the 80th player ejection of 2016. Prior to ejection, Donaldson was 0-4 (2 SO) in the contest.
This is Toronto's 17th ejection of 2016, 1st in MLB/AL East (TOR 17; BOS 6; BAL 3; NYY, TB 2).
This is Josh Donaldson's 3rd ejection of 2016, 1st since May 21 (Toby Basner; QOC = Y [Balls/Strikes]).
This is Chris Conroy's first ejection since June 26, 2016 (Andrew McCutchen; QOC = N [Balls/Strikes]).

Wrap: Toronto Blue Jays vs. Seattle Mariners, 9/19/16 | Video available via "read more."

MLB Ejection 085 - Chris Conroy (1; Andrew McCutchen)

HP Umpire Chris Conroy ejected Pirates CF Andrew McCutchen for arguing a strike three call in the bottom of the 7th inning of the Dodgers-Pirates game. With two out and none on, McCutchen took a 2-2 fastball from Dodgers pitcher Casey Fien for a called third strike. Replays indicate the pitch was located over the heart of home plate and below the hollow of the knee (px .246, pz 1.326 [sz_bot 1.640 / MOE 1.557]), the call was incorrect. At the time of the ejection, the Pirates were leading, 4-3. The Pirates ultimately won the contest, 4-3.

This is Chris Conroy (98)'s first ejection of the 2016 MLB regular season.
Chris Conroy now has -1 points in the UEFL Standings (1 Previous + 2 MLB - 4 Incorrect Call = -1).
Crew Chief Jerry Meals now has -4 points in Crew Division (-4 Previous + 0 Incorrect Call = -4).

This is the 85th ejection report of the 2016 regular season.
This is the 42nd player ejection of 2016. Prior to ejection, McCutchen was 0-4 (2 SO) in the contest.
This is Pittsburgh's 7th ejection of 2016, 1st in the NL Central (PIT 7; CIN 5; CHC 2; MIL, STL 0).
This is Andrew McCutchen's first career MLB ejection.
This is Chris Conroy's first ejection since September 22, 2015 (Hector Santiago; QOC = N [Balls/Strikes]).

Wrap: Los Angeles Dodgers vs. Pittsburgh Pirates, 6/26/16 | Video available via "Read more"

MLB Ejection 207: Chris Conroy (3; Hector Santiago)

HP Umpire Chris Conroy ejected Angels P Hector Santiago for arguing a ball three call in the bottom of the 6th inning of the Angels-Astros game. With none out and none on, Astros batter Marwin Gonzalez took a 2-0 sinker from Santiago for a called third ball. Replays indicate the pitch was located over the outer half of home plate and thigh high (px .654, pz 1.853 [sz_bot 1.680 / MOE 1.763], the call was incorrect. At the time of the ejection, the Angels were leading, 3-2. The Angels ultimately won the contest, 4-3.

This is Chris Conroy (98)'s third ejection of 2015.
Chris Conroy now has -2 points in the UEFL Standings (0 Previous + 2 MLB - 4 Incorrect Call = -2).
Crew Chief Ted Barrett now has -5 points in Crew Division (-5 Previous + 0 Incorrect Call = -5).

This is the 207th ejection of the 2015 MLB Regular Season.
This is the 92nd player ejection of 2015. Prior to ejection, Santiago's line was 5.0 IP, 2 ER, 5 BB.
This is the Angels' 6th ejection of 2015, T-1st in the AL West (HOU, LAA, SEA, TEX 6; OAK 4).
This is Hector Santiago's first career MLB ejection.
This is Chris Conroy's first ejection since June 12, 2015 (Mike Scioscia; QOC = N [Safe/Out]).

Wrap: Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim vs. Houston Astros, 9/22/15
Video: Santiago gripes about the strike zone after being subbed out, and is in turn tossed out (LAA)

MLB Ejection 085: Chris Conroy (2; Mike Scioscia)

1B Umpire Chris Conroy ejected Angels Manager Mike Scioscia for arguing an out call in the bottom of the 6th inning of the Athletics-Angels game. With none out and one on, Angels batter Johnny Giavotella hit a 1-0 changeup from A's pitcher Jesse Chavez on the ground to third baseman Brett Lawrie, who threw to first baseman Stephen Vogt as Giavotella arrived at first base. Replays indicate Giavotella's left foot appeared to make contact with the first base bag prior to the ball entering Vogt's glove, the call was incorrect. At the time of the ejection, the Angels were leading, 3-2. The Angels ultimately won the contest, 5-4.

This is Chris Conroy (98)'s second ejection of 2015.
Chris Conroy now has 1 point in the UEFL Standings (3 Prev + 2 MLB - 4 Incorrect Call = 1).
Crew Chief Ted Barrett now has -2 points in Crew Division (-2 Previous + 0 Incorrect Call = -2).

This is the 85th ejection of the 2015 MLB Regular Season.
This is the 39th Manager ejection of 2015.
This is the Angels' 2nd ejection of 2015, T-2nd in the AL West (SEA 4; LAA, OAK, TEX 2; HOU 1).
This is Mike Scioscia's first ejection since August 21, 2014 (Andy Fletcher; QOC = U [DiMuro Rule]).
This is Chris Conroy's first ejection since May 6, 2015 (Joey Votto; QOC = U [Unsportsmanlike-NEC]).

Wrap: Oakland Athletics vs. Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim, 6/12/15
Video: Out of challenges due to a failed attempt in the 5th, Scioscia has no recourse and is tossed (LAA)

MLB Ejection 038: Chris Conroy (1; Joey Votto)

HP Umpire Chris Conroy ejected Reds 1B Joey Votto for Unsportsmanlike-NEC in the top of the 3rd inning of the Reds-Pirates game. With two out and none on, Votto attempted to hit a 0-2 fastball from Pirates pitcher Gerrit Cole, striking out on a foul tip. Replays indicate that following the strikeout, Votto threw his equipment before using profanity in words directed towards the dirt circle and/or Pirates dugout area where Cole was walking, the call was irrecusable. At the time of the ejection, the game was tied, 0-0. The Reds ultimately won the contest, 3-0.

This is Chris Conroy (98)'s first ejection of 2015.
Chris Conroy now has 3 points in the UEFL Standings (1 Previous + 2 MLB + 0 Irrecusable = 3).
Crew Chief Ted Barrett now has 0 points in Crew Division (-1 Prev + 1 Irrecusable Call = 0).

This is the 38th ejection of the 2015 MLB Regular Season.
This is the 19th player ejection of 2015. Prior to ejection, Votto was 0-2 in the contest.
This is the Reds' 2nd ejection of 2015, T-1st in the NL Central (CIN, MIL 2; CHC, PIT 1; STL 0).
This is Joey Votto's first ejection since August 15, 2010 (DJ Reyburn; QOC = Y [Balls/Strikes]).
This is Chris Conroy's first ejection since April 23, 2014 (Bruce Bochy; QOC = Y [Balls/Strikes]).

Wrap: Cincinnati Reds vs. Pittsburgh Pirates, 5/6/15
Video: A frustrated Votto gets kicked out and appears to charge at and bump umpire Conroy (CIN)