The Toronto Blue Jays narrowly defeated the Baltimore Orioles 6-4 in a pivotal rubber match on Sunday, but the game’s outcome was marred by a controversial non-call that will likely linger in the minds of Orioles players and fans.

In the bottom of the sixth inning, with the Orioles leading 4-1, a critical play unfolded. Brandon Valenzuela hit a grounder to shortstop Gunnar Henderson, who attempted to tag Ernie Clement as he ran from first to second base. However, Clement veered wide to avoid the tag, yet second base umpire Nic Lentz did not call him out for deviating from the base path. This oversight allowed Jesús Sánchez to score, turning the tide in favor of the Blue Jays.

Key details include:

• Score: Orioles 4, Blue Jays 1 before the play
• Outcome of the play: Clement’s non-call paved the way for three additional Blue Jays hits, shifting the game to a 5-4 lead.
• Rule Reference: Major League Baseball Rule 5.09(b) states a runner is out if they run more than three feet away from their base path to avoid being tagged, unless they are avoiding interference with a fielder.

Orioles manager Craig Albernaz expressed frustration, noting that Clement's deviation from the expected baseline was clear. Meanwhile, Shane Baz, on the mound for the Blue Jays, hinted at his frustration, stating, "The only reason that I'm not gonna talk about that play is because I will get fined."

Blue Jays manager John Schneider took a more diplomatic approach, suggesting that Clement’s skill in navigating the base paths may have played a role in the non-call.

Adding to the Orioles' distress, Jackson Holliday was called out in the ninth inning for a similar violation, underscoring the inconsistency in officiating.

With this victory, the Blue Jays improved to 32-34, now just a half-game out of a wild-card spot, while the Orioles fell to 31-35, remaining 1 ½ games out of playoff contention.