Mets lose challenge on bizarre play that confused everyone

Join Post Sports+ for exciting subscriber-only features, including real-time texting with Mike Puma about the inside buzz on the Mets.Well, that’s something you don’t see every day.The Mets lost a challenge on a rule that left most of the team confused during the third inning of Friday night’s game against the Dodgers.Mets outfielders Juan Soto and Tyrone Taylor nearly collided in right-center to catch a ball hit by Mookie Betts, with the ball briefly grazing both of their gloves before Taylor eventually made the play on the bare hand.Despite leaving before the ball was fully secured, Dodgers outfielder — and ex-Met — Michael Conforto was ultimately ruled safe because the ball was first touched before being caught.According to official MLB rules, a runner is permitted to tag up to the next base once the ball is touched by a fielder, and since Conforto waited until Taylor and Soto made contact with the ball, he was called safe after review following the Mets’ unsuccesful challenge.Players on the field were stunned by the little-known rule, with Francisco Lindor showing a confused look after asking umpires on the field for clarity on the play.Even Conforto appeared surprised once hearing the ruling from the umpires.Apple TV+ announcers Wayne Randazzo and Dontrelle Willis also did not know about the rule, with the pair trying their best to explain what happened.“You learn something new every day, Wayne,” Willis, a former two-time All-Star pitcher, told his broadcast partner.Former MLB umpire Brian Gorman then joined the broadcast to clear up the play.“The reason behind the touch, as opposed to when he eventually catches the ball, is that an outfielder can actually juggle the ball all the way in and not threat the guy from advancing,” Gorman said.

“As soon as the ball hits the glove, he can take off.”Just one batter following the confusing play, the game was delayed due to rain....