Rule 7.13 still needs further clarification, especially after this confusing replay overturn in the third inning of Wednesday night’s game between the Reds and Pirates at Pittsburgh’s PNC Park …
It’s a forceout situation, so Martin has to keep one foot on the plate. And it’s the throw that clearly guides him into the runner’s path. There is no motivation for a catcher to block home plate on a force play, right?
Ken Rosenthal of The Athletic confirms a report from journalist Américo Celado that White Sox catcher Welington Castillo will be suspended 80 games for violating baseball’s Joint Drug Agreement. Castillo was believed to have used a steroid, but according to Rosenthal, the substance was not a steroid. More details should come on Thursday.
Castillo, 31, entered Wednesday’s action batting .270/.314/.477 with six home runs and 15 RBI in 118 plate appearances. He has gotten the bulk of the work behind the plate, backed up by Omar Narváez.
Castillo’s absence will likely prompt the White Sox to call up Kevan Smith from Triple-A Charlotte. Smith battled an ankle injury in March and April, so he got a late start to the season. In 102 PA at Triple-A, he has hit .283/.343/.457.
