The Philadelphia Phillies wrapped up their recent series against the New York Mets under controversial circumstances. Following Wednesday’s game, Phillies manager Rob Thomson questioned the legitimacy of the closer’s apparent injury during a key moment against J.T. Realmuto—strongly implying that he may have faked it.
In the 10th inning, Edwin Diaz faced Realmuto with Nick Castellanos on first. During the at-bat, Diaz disengaged from the mound three times, which typically results in an automatic balk and advancement of the runner. However, the umpires reversed the call after Diaz claimed his third disengagement was due to injury.
Thomson wasn’t convinced. According to Danny Abriano of SportsNet New York, Thomson remarked, “He wasn’t hurt after the first or second step-off. Then he steps off a third time, they give the runner second base, and then he calls for the trainer? That doesn’t quite add up. That’s a move I’ll have to tell our pitchers about—step off three times, act hurt, we’ll sub you out.”
Whether Diaz was truly injured or not, the timing of the incident potentially cost the Phillies a win in extra innings and contributed to the Mets completing the sweep. With New York now comfortably ahead in the NL East, every game between these division rivals could prove critical in shaping both the standings and the playoff race.
As the Phillies and Mets prepare for future matchups, Thomson will undoubtedly keep a close eye out for any similar tactics from New York.