Phillies Manager Accuses Mets' Edwin Diaz of Faking Injury Amid Controversial Game

In a dramatic extra-innings clash between the New York Mets and Philadelphia Phillies, Mets closer Edwin Diaz exited the game in the 10th inning after appearing to suffer a hip cramp, which led to a controversial reversal of a balk call. MLB rules state that a third disengagement from the mound should result in a balk, but umpires reversed the call after Diaz signaled an injury, sending Phillies runner Nick Castellanos back to first base. Phillies manager Rob Thomson openly questioned the legitimacy of Diaz's injury, implying it might have been a tactical move to avoid the penalty and suggesting he might coach his own pitchers to do the same in future games. Diaz and the Mets maintained the injury was genuine, referencing a hip imbalance noticed by team staff, and Diaz insisted his pain was real. Despite the controversy, the Mets went on to win the game in walk-off fashion and complete a series sweep. The incident has stirred debate about gamesmanship and rule enforcement, with both teams recognizing the potential impact such moments could have on the divisional race.