McGwire's Home Run Record in Jeopardy After Controversial Call
The 1998 Home Run Record is still a subject of controversy, with Mark McGwire's record potentially needing an asterisk. In a pivotal game between the St. Louis Cardinals and the Milwaukee Brewers, a disputed home run call left both sides in a state of uncertainty. The ball, hit by McGwire, was initially ruled a home run but was later overturned by umpire Bob Davidson due to fan interference. The Cardinals are now appealing the call to the National League, seeking to have the home run reinstated.
Key Takeaways:
- Mark McGwire hit a home run that was initially ruled as such, but was later overturned due to fan interference.
- Umpire Bob Davidson, a member of the NL staff since 1983, made the call, citing the ball hitting a fan below the yellow line.
- The fan, Michael Chapes, was ejected and fined $518 for trespassing, claiming he was doubled over a chain-link fence and not in front of the railing as Davidson ruled.
- The Cardinals are appealing the call to the National League, seeking to have the home run reinstated.
- This is a significant moment in the 1998 Home Run Race, coming down to the wire with McGwire and Sammy Sosa vying for the record.
- Tony La Russa, Cardinals manager, is leading the appeal, emphasizing the uniqueness of the situation and seeking a reversal of Davidson's call.
- Katy Feeney, NL spokeswoman, stated that a ruling is expected today, leaving the outcome of the appeal up in the air.
Statistics:
- McGwire's home run total: 65
- Number of disputed home runs in the 1998 season: 1
- Number of fans ejected for trespassing during the season: 2 (including Michael Chapes)
- Number of home runs hit since the disputed call: 1
- Number of days left in the season: 5
- Number of games left in the season: 5
Sources:
- Associated Press
- National League spokeswoman Katy Feeney
- Umpire Bob Davidson
- Michael Chapes, fan ejected for trespassing
- Tony La Russa, Cardinals manager
- Mark McGwire, St. Louis Cardinals player