Entering the final stretch, the New York Yankees and Houston Astros began a series that could easily resurface as a first-round playoff battle. After a commanding 7-1 win in the opener, the Yankees were handed an 8-7 defeat in game two. Even though the Yankees bounced back with an 8-4 win in the third game, this series was marred by disputed calls. Brian Walsh—the umpire behind the plate was drawn under scrutiny for significantly favoring the Astros in the second game. The Yankees had every reason to be upset. Yet, to some, their postgame response came off as leaning too heavily into a victim narrative.

Both Devin Williams and Aaron Boone were ejected on Wednesday after the most impactful call. It was Williams’ 2-0 pitch to Trammell that Walsh incorrectly called a ball.

“When you’re maki

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