Bob Costas is once again in the crosshairs of baseball fans after a cringe-worthy call during Game 3 of the ALDS between the Yankees and Royals. Critics have long targeted Costas for his low-energy commentary, off-topic ramblings, and perceived bias. But this time, he committed an inexcusable broadcasting blunder that left fans on both sides frustrated.
It all happened during a pivotal moment in the bottom of the 8th inning. With the Royals trailing 3-2, Kansas City’s Vinny Pasquantino stepped up to the plate with one out and a runner on first. As he made contact and sent the ball toward the middle of the field, Costas jumped the gun, declaring it a base hit. But the ball didn’t make it through as he had proclaimed. In a high-stakes moment, Costas misread the play, creating confusion for viewers who trusted his call.
Yankees fans and Royals fans alike were left scratching their heads. Social media lit up with criticism, with many asking why Costas, a veteran of the booth, wasn’t more cautious. “Hey Bob, maybe wait until the ball actually hits the ground before calling it a base hit,” one fan tweeted, echoing the sentiment of many who were baffled by his mistake.
Earlier in the series, Costas faced heat for defending Giancarlo Stanton’s sluggish running on a double play, which some fans saw as unnecessary excuses. His commentary style, described as meandering and off-point, has already sparked a wave of backlash this postseason.
To make matters worse, this latest error came at a crucial moment for the Royals. If Costas’s misstep wasn’t enough to sour the moment, the Yankees went on to win the game 3-2, further fueling the frustration of Royals fans who had to endure what they felt was a disjointed broadcast.
Costas’s mistake has once again put him in the spotlight for all the wrong reasons. Whether he’ll adjust his approach or face more criticism as the playoffs continue remains to be seen, but one thing is clear: fans are tired of hearing the Hall of Fame broadcaster drop the ball on crucial calls.
