Jim Wolf has faced calls for his job this season, from fans and analysts alike. He is currently ranked 77th of 90 MLB umpires, and his performance on Friday night during a game between the New York Mets and Kansas City Royals did not help his case.
Wolf recorded a correct call rate of just 85.6%, which was the 10th-worst performance for an umpire this season.
The video tells the story.
Wolf drew the ire of players and coaches from both New York and Kansas City, with Mets manager Carlos Mendoza arguing balls and strikes at multiple points throughout the game.
Mets third baseman Mark Vientos also broke his bat over home plate in the top of the third inning after striking out with the bases loaded. He was visibly frustrated with an earlier strike call.
Wolf is no stranger to criticism and controversy. He has a long history of making bad calls and missing obvious balls and strikes.
It’s hard to overlook and even harder to defend. At some point, the MLB will have to address the elephant in the room.
