As in Game 1 of the World Series the night before, Game 2 on Saturday night, Oct. 24, had a close call at the finish.
Tampa Bay Rays designated hitter Yandy Díaz was called out on a check-swing appeal to end the game as the Milwaukee Brewers held on to a 5-4 comeback victory at American Family Field to take a 2-0 series lead.
The top of the ninth inning, which began with Rays center fielder Jonny DeLuca's double, came to head on Díaz's at-bat with two outs, a full count and DeLuca on third base.
Brewers reliever Aaron Ashby continued his immaculate 2026 playoff run and sealed the deal with a well-placed curveball when first-base umpire James Hoye called Díaz's check attempt a swing.
The unclear nature of the call – and the fact that check-swings can't be challenged or reviewed – caused a stir among some fans and analysts.
“Oh man. That hurts.”The crew reacts to the check-swing call that Yandy Díaz swung to end the game@kevinburkhardt | @AROD | @davidortiz | @derekjeter @MLBONFOX https://t.co/7a0LXa2RWW
— FOX Sports (@FOXSports) October 25, 2026