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Devdutt Padikkal (86*), B Sai Sudharsan (73) and N Jagadeesan (64) were also among the runs in Lucknow

ESPNcricinfo staff18-Sep-2025

Dhruv Jurel scored his second first-class century on a day when all India A batters except captain Shreyas Iyer were among the runs against Australia A. The hosts ended day three on 403 for 4, still 129 runs behind the visitors’ first-innings total of 532. Apart from Jurel, who was batting on 113 at stumps, Devdutt Padikkal, B Sai Sudharsan and N Jagadeesan also went past fifty at the Ekana Stadium in Lucknow.India A started day three trailing Australia A by 416 runs, with nine wickets in hand, and Xavier Bartlett had Jagadeesan caught behind by Josh Phillipe for 64 in the sixth over of the day to end a second-wicket stand of 49. Padikkal then joined Sudharsan in a productive stand, but with their partnership nearing a hundred, Sudharsan missed an attempted reverse-sweep off Cooper Connolly and was trapped lbw for 73.Australia A struck again 3.2 overs later, with Iyer was trapped in front by Corey Rocchiccioli for 8. It was Iyer’s third successive low score in a first-class game, after he was dismissed for 25 and 12 against Central Zone in the semi-finals of the Duleep Trophy earlier this month.But Iyer’s wicket turned out to be the last for Australia A on Thursday, as Jurel and Padikkal rebuilt. India A were 310 behind when the two came together, and by the end of the day they had put on an unbroken 181 for the fifth wicket.Padikkal was more the patient of the two batters, taking his time in getting to his fifty off 117 balls. The aggressive Jurel reached the landmark in just 54 deliveries, getting there by smashing Rocchiccioli for two consecutive sixes and a four.Rocchiccioli was the most expensive of the Australia A bowlers, going for 128 runs in 24 overs at an economy rate of 5.33. Jurel especially took a liking to the offspinner, scoring 47 runs off him at just better than a run a ball, with three fours and three sixes.By the end of the day, Jurel had rattled along at a strike rate of 85.61 over 132 balls, and Padikkal at 48.31. The left-hand batter went to stumps batting on 86, in sight of a seventh first-class century. Their 181-run stand had come at nearly five runs an over.With only the final day’s play left, and with neither team having begun their second innings, the match seems headed towards a draw.

It would be fair to say that, at West Ham United, Nuno Espírito Santo has one of the most challenging jobs in the Premier League.

The Portuguese manager has to drag a massive club out of the relegation zone, but unlike in seasons past, the promoted sides are actually putting up a fight.

However, the win over Newcastle United showed two things: the squad are behind him, and it has more than a handful of quality players in it.

There is one in particular who could end up becoming Nuno’s new Morgan Gibbs-White, and no, it’s not Freddie Potts.

The West Ham players vital to Nuno this season

While it is a simplification, Nuno was able to get the most out of Nottingham Forest by playing a direct brand of football that saw his side defend well and then counter-attack effectively.

Chalkboard

Football FanCast’s Chalkboard series presents a tactical discussion from around the global game.

Therefore, while they’ve hardly impressed this season, the manager’s success at the London Stadium could rest heavily on the form of Max Kilman, Jean-Clair Todibo and Konstantinos Mavropanos.

Fortunately, the first two finally looked like the players the Hammers signed against Newcastle, as between them, they made 16 clearances, won five of seven duels, and were dribbled past just once.

If they can replicate that display more often, then there is every chance the Hammers could start climbing the league.

Another player who was crucial for the Tricky Trees last time out was Elliot Anderson, and while it is still early days, Potts could be the Irons version.

The academy graduate was unreal against the Toon, demonstrating everything that could make him an excellent all-action midfielder, from crunching tackles to crisp passing and an ability to win aerial duels.

Now, while solidity is going to be important for the East Londoners, they are also going to need to be explosive on the counter, and with a left-hand side of El Hadji Malick Diouf and Crysencio Summerville, they’ll have just that.

The former has already shown himself to be a powerhouse of a left-back with a sensational cross on him, while the latter’s speed and close control could give opposition defenders nightmares.

With all that said, Nuno will also need a talismanic Gibbs-White-esque figure in his squad, and the good news is that he already does.

Nuno's new Gibbs-White at West Ham

Now, when talking about a West Ham player who could become Nuno’s new Gibbs-White, plenty of people will think of Lucas Paqueta.

After all, the Brazilian is an attacking midfielder who plays with flair and can grab a goal or provide an assist.

However, in this instance, it’s not really about position, but more stature, personality and importance to the club, which is why it has to be Jarrod Bowen.

Like the Forest ace, the former Hull City star is the Hammers’ captain and really is Mr West Ham.

For example, it was his goal that delivered the club their first piece of European silverware, and he is the player the rest of the team turns to when they are in desperate need of a goal.

Since joining the East Londoners in January 2020, the 28-year-old has scored 77 goals and provided 53 assists in 249 appearances, totalling 19881 minutes.

That comes out to an average of a goal involvement every 1.91 games, or every 152.93 minutes.

On top of simply being world-class, such a return truly justifies Jamie Carragher’s claim that he is “one of the greatest players to have ever played for the club.”

Ultimately, Nuno has a handful of genuinely impressive players in his West Ham squad, but the most important, and the one who could become his new Gibbs-White, is Bowen.

West Ham flop now looks totally finished under Nuno after Potts' emergence

Following Potts’ brilliant performance, it might be the end of the line for the West Ham dud.

By
Jack Salveson Holmes

Nov 4, 2025

Josh Naylor had the best season of his career in 2025. After starting the year with the Diamondbacks, Naylor was dealt to the Mariners at the trade deadline, where he played a big role in the team’s run to the ALCS. Now, he’s set to hit the open market for the first time in his career, and he figures to have plenty of teams interested in him in free agency.

Naylor racked up a career-high 3.1 bWAR in ‘25, including 2.2 in just 54 games in Seattle. He recorded a .812 OPS with a .295 batting average, and launched 20 home runs with 92 RBIs. In addition to his prowess at the plate, Naylor was an extremely effective baserunner, racking up 30 stolen bases despite never having swiped more than 10 bags in any previous season.

The Mariners will certainly be hoping they can work out a deal to keep Naylor in Seattle on a new contract, but with free agency awaiting the 29-year-old, they’ll have to fend off some staunch competition for his signature.

Naylor is projected by ESPN to be in line to receive a contract worth around $52.5 million over three years. That feels a bit low, and it’s certainly possible that price tag would rise, potentially dramatically, if multiple teams got in the mix.

So, what are some possible landing spots for Naylor when he hits the open market?

Seattle Mariners

Naylor was an outstanding fit for the Mariners after being acquired at the trade deadline. Bringing him back should be a top priority for Seattle this offseason. That much has been echoed by the organization’s front office, as GM Justin Hollander has expressed his desire to keep Naylor in the PNW.

The Mariners enjoyed their longest stay in the postseason in franchise history this year, despite finishing just one win shy of a World Series berth. They’ll be determined to finish the job in 2026 and try to punch their first-ever ticket to the Fall Classic. Naylor was fantastic during the team’s run in October, registering a .957 OPS in 12 games, and bringing him back feels like a must for Seattle.

San Diego Padres

The Padres have a glaring need at first base, and after a disappointing showing in the postseason, San Diego will be determined to bounce back in 2026. Offense was hard to come by for the Padres last year, and without an established first baseman currently on the roster heading into the ‘26 campaign, Naylor feels like an excellent fit for the organization.

The Padres were 28th in MLB in home runs last year (152) and were in the middle of the pack in OPS (.711). Those are both areas where Naylor could make an instant impact. Naylor started his career in San Diego, playing 94 games for the organization as a rookie in 2019 before getting traded to Cleveland the following season. He could return to the team where he got his first taste of MLB action, while providing the Padres with a much-needed boost on offense.

Cincinnati Reds

The Reds have been linked to Naylor in the past, and after failing to bring him aboard in recent seasons, they could stage another attempt during free agency. Cincinnati narrowly missed out on the postseason last year, but adding a player of Naylor’s caliber could help them get over the hump.

Cincinnati ranked in the bottom half of MLB in home runs, batting average, OPS and hits. Spencer Steer had a decent season at first base, but Naylor would certainly be an upgrade over him and also has the flexibility to move into the outfield or even be used at DH. Only two players on the Reds hit 20 or more home runs last year and no one had more than 22. Naylor could achieve those numbers in the hitter-friendly Great American Ball Park with ease.

New York Mets

If the Mets and Pete Alonso are truly parting ways this offseason, with the veteran slugger destined for free agency, New York will be in the market for a new first baseman. Naylor could be a great fit, providing the team with some more consistent hitting as opposed to pure power.

The Mets ranked in the middle of the pack in terms of batting average in 2025, though their OPS was among the best in the league. Getting another reliable hitter in the middle of the order, one who flirts with a .300 batting average, would be a great way to replace one of the league’s biggest sluggers.

Pitching will be one of the main focal points for New York this offseason, but if Alonso doesn’t return, they’d be hard pressed to find a more suitable replacement at first base than Naylor.

If the Dodgers want to repeat as World Series champions, they'll have to cobble together 54 more outs against a Blue Jays lineup that has become the toast of Canada a year after hitting .241 collectively.

That starts Friday in Game 6, with both bullpens still feeling the distant aftershocks of Los Angeles's 18-inning Game 3 win. It'll be all hands on deck for a Dodgers team on the brink of extinction, but one notable arm will be absent.

Designated hitter and pitcher Shohei Ohtani is not available to throw for the Dodgers Friday if needed, manager Dave Roberts said via Fox shortly before Game 6 Friday. Ohtani, the losing pitcher in Game 4 (his first loss since August), be available Saturday in the event of a Game 7.

One pitcher that is available Friday for Los Angeles: Tyler Glasnow, who started and took no decision in Game 3.

Yoshinobu Yamamoto, who has gone the distance each of his last two starts, will toe the rubber for the Dodgers Friday. Toronto will start two-time All-Star Kevin Gausman.

The international break is something of a blessing and a curse for Arsenal.

On the one hand, it gives the club respite from their current injury crisis, but on the other, they have to wait two weeks to make amends for the draw away to Sunderland.

However, even though they saw their lead cut on Sunday evening, Mikel Arteta’s side are in a great spot in the Premier League.

Moreover, despite injuries, the side is full to bursting with talent, including one player who’s starting to look like another Myles Lewis-Skelly.

The latest on Lewis-Skelly's future at Arsenal

It would be fair to say that, aside from their run in the Champions League, last season was something of a disappointment for Arsenal.

Chalkboard

Football FanCast’s Chalkboard series presents a tactical discussion from around the global game.

However, there were at least a couple of positives to come from it, such as the emergence of Ethan Nwaneri and Lewis-Skelly.

The latter was more of a surprise to most, and yet over the course of the campaign, he became a far more significant part of the side, effectively becoming Arteta’s first-choice left-back.

In fact, by the end of the season, the 19-year-old had made 39 first-team appearances, totalling 2306 minutes, and even made his full debut for England, during which he scored.

However, so far this season has been a totally different story for the youngster, as while he has still made 12 appearances, only four of those have been starts, and overall, he has played just 463 minutes of action.

During the last international break, Thomas Tuchel said that this lack of game time could result in him not picking the Islington-born ace.

Unfortunately, that’s what’s happened this international break.

Unsurprisingly, this has led to reports that other Premier League clubs are now interested in signing the youngster in the winter transfer window.

However, the same reports make it clear that Arteta and Co are keen to keep the Hale Ender at the club, and that they expect him to play more minutes as the season progresses.

With that said, if Arsenal do decide to cash in, they do have another youngster in the side who is showing shades of Lewis-Skelly in his game.

Arsenal's new Lewis-Skelly

Even though Riccardo Calafiori and Pieiro Hincapie are his competition at left-back, the Arsenal player who is showing shades of Lewis-Skelly in his game this season is Cristhian Mosquera.

Now, that might sound like a leap to begin with, but “similarly to Lewis-Skelly,” per analyst Ben Mattinson, the Spaniard has shown an immense level of “physical maturity for his age.”

More than that, though, the 21-year-old has also shown a remarkable mental maturity, which was on full display when he came on and played almost the whole game away to Liverpool, and then started the club’s opening Champions League game against Athletic Bilbao.

While he may have been described as a “monster” by Gunners insider Hand of Arsenal, where most young defenders would need their hand held by a senior teammate or go crashing into ridiculous challenges, the former Valencia gem is thoughtful about when he goes in for a tackle or block.

However, that’s not to say he is adverse to the more physical side of the game, as, just like Lewis-Skelly, he is someone who “loves to battle with physical attackers,” according to Mattinson.

Moreover, while most fans and pundits alike expected the exciting youngster to play a minor role this season, the Valencia-born titan is following in the Hale Ender’s footsteps from last season and playing a far more significant role than most predicted.

For example, he has already made 12 appearances, five of which have been starts, totalling 597 minutes.

Finally, like the Englishman, he is not solely limited to playing a single position, as in addition to playing at centre-back, he can do a job at right-back.

Ultimately, there are some differences between them, but in terms of mentality, raw ability, and attitude, there are plenty of similarities between Mosquera and Lewis-Skelly.

After Dowman: Hale End has given Arsenal a future star who's "like Vieira"

The incredible prospect could be another Max Dowman-style star for Arsenal.

By
Jack Salveson Holmes

Nov 12, 2025

Vinicius Junior has urged Brazil to “switch into World Cup mode,” insisting the Selecao’s opportunity has finally arrived under coach Carlo Ancelotti. The Real Madrid star claims the Italian has transformed Brazil’s mentality, tactics and daily culture since taking charge by bringing calm, confidence and clarity to a team desperate to end a 24-year World Cup drought.

• Vinicius Jr sets the tone for the upcoming World Cup

  The bond between Ancelotti and Brazil has grown into one of the defining stories of the national team’s new era. When he left Madrid in the summer, a year after delivering another Champions League title, few expected his next job to be with the Selecao. But for one of the most decorated managers in football history, the lure of leading Brazil was irresistible.

  After six games – three wins and two draws – under the coach, the national team have qualified for the next World Cup and are aiming to end a long wait for the global crown, and Vinicius has given the clearest endorsement of the Italian.

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• AFP
  

  How Ancelotti has 'evolved' Brazil

  Speaking to CBF’s official media, ahead of Brazil's international friendlies against Senegal and Tunisia, he said they are finally becoming the team they need to be: “With Ancelotti, we’re evolving and building a clear playing identity. Finding that balance before the World Cup will be crucial. We all have to get into the World Cup mindset and understand that our opportunity has arrived.”

  Vinicius explained the transformation in detail pointing out to the renewed confidence the manager has instilled within the team.

  “He’s done the same thing everywhere he’s gone—instilling confidence and getting the best out of every player in their ideal position. He always says his dream is to make the Brazilian people happy, to bring back the joyful football that defines us, and to win the World Cup.

  “He gives us calm and confidence. He reminds us that we already have the passion and intensity to wear this shirt—and that’s the hardest part. We just need to win so that his work gets the recognition it deserves.”

• Will Neymar be a part of Brazil's World Cup squad?

  Ancelotti's selections have also reflected a shift toward merit rather than reputation. Fitness, form and tactical fit have dictated squad decisions, even if it meant temporarily leaving out heavyweights like Vinicius, Rodrygo or Neymar. At the same time, Ancelotti has expanded the talent pool, integrating emerging names such as Endrick and Vitor Roque while encouraging competition by insisting that “around 70 players” are capable of reaching the World Cup squad.

  As Ancelotti builds a disciplined, modern Brazil, one monumental question hangs over the project: Will Neymar be part of that squad?

  His return to Santos has been overshadowed by repeated thigh and knee injuries, including a rectus femoris issue, his fourth setback since returning. Though the player insists his omission from recent squads is “technical, not physical,” doubts remain.

  Brazil's legendary striker Ronaldo, however, is adamant: “He’s a key player. We don’t have another Neymar. If he’s fit, Brazil will be stronger, simple as that. People don’t understand how hard it is to come back. It’s a gradual process.”

  Neymar continues to play full matches for Santos and has extended his contract until the end of 2025, with an option through the World Cup. Yet Ancelotti’s Brazil has learned to function without him.

  With Vinicius, Raphinha and Matheus Cunha leading the front line, the Selecao are balanced but sometimes lack moments of magic. Whether Neymar provides them again will decide his World Cup fate. And it will be Ancelotti’s biggest selection decision yet.

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• AFP
  

  Vinicius and Ancelotti aiming for glory with Brazil

  If Brazil are to challenge for a sixth World Cup, the heart of that push will be the relationship between Vinicius and Ancelotti. Vinicius’ evolution under Ancelotti is one of European football’s success stories with two Champions League titles, two La Liga titles, Champions League Best Player 2023-24 and a Ballon d’Or favourite.

  Ancelotti refined him from a raw winger into one of the world’s most decisive attackers, improving his finishing, decision-making and leadership. That dynamic has now transferred seamlessly to Brazil. As the 2026 World Cup approaches, Brazil stand at a crossroads. For 24 years, they have chased a sixth star. Now, under a calm, experienced leader and with a superstar maturing into his prime, belief is returning. 

Leeds United secured a superb 3-3 comeback against Liverpool at Elland Road last night to make it four points in the space of a week against big six opposition.

Daniel Farke’s men fell two goals behind just minutes after the break after a Hugo Ekitiké double, but it only seemed to spur the side on to get back into the Premier League clash.

Goals from Dominic Calvert-Lewin and Anton Stach restored parity before Dominic Szoboszlai’s 80th-minute effort looked to have finally handed the visitors three points.

However, it wasn’t meant to be, with the Whites’ never-say-die attitude rewarding them a point, after Ao Tanaka beautifully volleyed home from a corner in the 96th minute.

Despite the impressive fightback against the Reds in Yorkshire, numerous players struggled to impress throughout the clash, which could put their starting roles at huge risk.

Leeds’ poor performers against Liverpool

Jayden Bogle has been Leeds’ number one right-back so far this campaign, but his showing against the Reds was arguably one of his worst of the season to date.

The Englishman was withdrawn with just a minute left in the clash, after giving possession away 11 times, with two occasions coming when trying to take on an opponent.

He also failed to win any tackles against Cody Gakpo, whilst only coming out on top in 25% of the ground and aerial duels he entered against the defending champions.

Bogle wasn’t alone in struggling within the back five, with centre-back Joe Rodon having an uncharacteristically poor performance in the Premier League.

The Welsh international’s misplaced pass handed the ball on a plate for Ekitike to fire home and help the visitors establish their two-goal cushion early in the second half.

He also only managed to win 50% of the aerial battles he entered in the defensive third, but thankfully, he was bailed out by Tanaka for his struggles in stoppage time.

The Leeds star who needs to be dropped after Liverpool

If Leeds are to stay up in the Premier League this season, their ability to get themselves off the canvas on a regular basis could play a massive role in any successful survival attempt.

Few sides in the league would be able to get themselves back within striking distance of sides who possess the quality of Liverpool, with Farke deserving huge credit after such a result.

The German wasn’t afraid of making key changes at crucial parts of the game, with his triple change in the 65th minute seeing Tanaka score, whilst Wilfried Gnonto won the penalty for Calvert-Lewin’s strike.

Brenden Aaronson was also on hand to provide the goods, with the American registering the assist for Stach’s strike – which restored parity for the first time in the meeting.

However, Noah Okafor was just one of the players sacrificed for the aforementioned trio, with the attacker potentially now fearing for his starting role in Yorkshire.

The Swiss international lasted just over an hour before being replaced, but his stats from his time on the pitch showcase how lacklustre his showing at Elland Road was.

He was only able to complete a total of five passes in his 65-minute showing – an average of one every 13 minutes – with his small frame unsuited to the counter-attacking nature in the first half.

Noah Okafor – stats against Liverpool

Statistics

Tally

Minutes played

65

Touches

14

Passes completed

5

Dribbles completed

1

Aerials won

0

Shots on target

0

Possession lost

4x

Fouls committed

1

Stats via FotMob

The 25-year-old tried his best to make an impact on the transition, but largely struggled against the Reds’ backline – as seen by his tally of just one dribble completed.

Okafor also failed to win any of his aerial battles, something which is hardly a surprise given his stature – but also coming up against the likes of Virgil van Dijk.

To top off his disappointing display, he only registered a total of 14 touches during the draw, with goalkeeper Lucas Perri making nearly three times more with his tally of 43.

After such a performance, Farke will be left with no choice but to drop the Swiss international, with the trio off the bench certainly deserving of a start after their impact in the second half.

It’s certainly not a bad call for the manager to make, especially with the recent form creating competition for places – something that will be vital if they are to secure survival.

Related Leeds now make contact over signing "powerful" star who's been likened to Odegaard

He’s a wanted man.

Posts ByTom Cunningham 6 days ago

The home side crumbled on the final day before a last-wicket stand narrowed the margin

AAP and ESPNcricinfo staff07-Oct-2025

New South Wales opened their Sheffield Shield campaign with a memorable 74-run away win over Western Australia.Set 231 to win, WA crumbled for 156 on a tricky pitch at the WACA ground in Perth as unheralded Blues quick Liam Hatcher inflicted serious damage on the lower order. Batting with injured No. 11 Joel Paris, Australia allrounder Ashton Agar went down swinging.Related

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Paris and Agar put on an innings-high 53-run stand for the last wicket to give NSW some nervous moments before closing out the game.But Agar was bowled for 46 the first ball after drinks in the second session of day four, slashing onto his stumps off Ryan Hadley who finished with eight wickets in the matchNSW lost serious experience in the off-season with Jackson Bird moving back to Tasmania and Moises Henriques retiring from four-day cricket. The upset result is a huge boost for veteran Test spinner Nathan Lyon, who led the side in this match in the absence of Jack Edwards on Australia A duty.WA veteran Cameron Bancroft did nothing to impress selectors for a potential Test recall, out for 3 when he edged Hadley after making 10 in the first innings.Test allrounder Cameron Green fell for 24 on Tuesday, superbly held in his follow through by former WA quick Charlie Stobo, after making 19 in the first innings. Green, who is being eased back into bowling following serious back surgery last year, sent down just four overs in the match.NSW’s contenders for a potential Test spot – Sam Konstas and Kurtis Patterson – also failed to capitalise. Incumbent Test opener Konstas made 4 and 14, while Patterson, who played the last of his two games for Australia back in 2019, was dismissed for 8 and 4.

Limited play increases prospect of draw, but champions have a shot at pushing for victory

ECB Reporters Network supported by Rothesay10-Sep-2025Only 21.1 overs were possible on day three at the Kia Oval but title favourites Surrey still used that time profitably to score 95 more second-innings runs and boost their chances of being able to force championship victory against Warwickshire.Dodging the showers in the afternoon, in two mini-sessions, allowed Ben Foakes and Dan Lawrence to add an unbroken 57 for the third wicket as Surrey reached 276 for two – and a lead of 274 to take into the Division One game’s final day.Foakes batted beautifully for 41 not out from 66 balls, with six fours, while Lawrence drove Ethan Bamber majestically over extra cover for six and also struck three fours in an unbeaten 36-ball 29.Earlier, in nine overs’ play before the first rain of the day arrived at 11.09am, Ollie Pope went quickly from his overnight 56 to 78, from 103 balls, before being bowled off an inside edge as he gave Michael Booth’s fast-medium the charge and tried to hit him over mid off.Pope had included a six and eight fours in an impressive knock that did much to provide Surrey with much-needed second innings impetus.Surrey, nine points ahead of nearest challengers Nottinghamshire at the start of the match, are seeking a fourth successive Rothesay County Championship title and – particularly if Notts can chase a fourth innings target of 136 to beat Worcestershire at New Road – will feel they also need to win this match.On 181 for one overnight, after taking control of the contest on day two after Warwickshire had replied with 248 to Surrey’s own first innings 246, Rory Burns’s side saw Dom Sibley retire hurt on his overnight score of 64 due to a recurring groin injury.Foakes and Pope added 38 runs in the day’s first 39-minute session, and Lawrence had only faced three balls following Pope’s dismissal when bad weather intervened and prevented any more play until 1.50pm.Nine runs were then scored in four overs, with rain causing another seven-minute delay before a further 8.1 overs were bowled in which Foakes and Lawrence plundered 48 ahead of a 2.49pm downpour.The hard-working Oval groundstaff did twice try to get play on again when the rain eased off for two separate spells, but then yet more rain swept in from the West to force an abandonment of the day’s play at 5.25pm. On the final day, weather permitting, Surrey will surely be looking for 50 or so more quick runs before declaring and trying to bowl Warwickshire out a second time.

The Pittsburgh Pirates beat the Detroit Tigers 8-5 on Tuesday night at PNC Park. Unfortunately for the Tigers, there was a real moment in the 4th inning as a sacrifice fly turned into an inning-ending 9-2 double-play when a baserunner forgot to touch the plate.

With the Tigers down 3-0 in the top of the 4th, Detroit outfielder Wenceel Perez led off the inning with a walk and then advanced to third on a single by Spencer Torkelson. With one out, Zach McKinstry hit a fly ball to right field that was caught cleanly by Alexander Canario. That's when Perez tagged up, but forgot his assignment on his way home.

Perez beat the throw to the plate, but as he slid in head first he apparently had his eyes closed and neglected to reach out and touch home. Eventually, Pirates catcher Henry Davis applied the tag as Perez completely slid past home without ever sticking out any body part to make any contact with the plate whatsoever.

Instead of scoring a run and still having a runner in scoring position, the inning ended without any runs. The Pirates added two more runs in the bottom half of the inning and the Tigers were never able to catch up.