Detroit Tigers accused of intentionally hitting umpire
On September 13, 2017, an event occurred during a match involving the Detroit Tigers and the Cleveland Indians, causing surprise and stirring debate. Many pondered whether the Detroit Tigers deliberately struck home plate umpire Quinn Wolcott with a pitch during their 5-3 defeat to the Indians.
The Ejections: Setting the Stage
The incident in question took place after Tigers manager Brad Ausmus and catcher James McCann were thrown out of the game. This occurred two batters into the bottom of the third inning, with the Indians holding a 4-1 lead. McCann was ejected for disputing a walk given to Cleveland’s Jay Bruce, while Ausmus was removed shortly afterward for confronting the umpire.
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Following the ejections, John Hicks assumed the catching responsibilities from McCann. With the bases loaded and Yandy Diaz at the plate, Tigers pitcher Buck Farmer delivered an inside fastball that evaded Hicks’ glove and hit Wolcott in the shoulder. Rather than immediately checking on the umpire, Hicks retrieved the ball and approached Farmer, adding to the speculation surrounding the pitch’s intent.
Detroit Tigers Deny Hitting Wolcott On Purpose
Both Farmer and Hicks vehemently denied any suggestions of intentionally hitting Wolcott. Farmer expressed disbelief at the notion, stating, “The fact that’s even a question is appalling. It shouldn’t be a question. When you look at the situation, it’s stupid to even think about. It shouldn’t even be a thought from anybody that Hicks and I would do that.”
Hicks echoed Farmer’s sentiments, stressing the competitive nature of the game: “Obviously, it looked bad right after Brad and [McCann] got tossed. But it’s bases loaded, and we’re trying to win a baseball game. Any thought of us trying to do that on purpose is just ridiculous.”
The Bottom Line: A Lingering Question
The incident left the baseball community divided, with some questioning the timing of the pitch to Wolcott as suspicious, while others perceived it as merely an unfortunate coincidence. Despite differing opinions on intent, the incident stands as a significant moment in Detroit Tigers history, generating discussions and debates among fans and analysts. Ultimately, the question persists: Was it an accident, or was it intentional?
