Major League Baseball faced challenges as the first game after the All-Star break occurred in “unhealthy” air conditions. The Philadelphia Phillies hosted the New York Mets while air quality, affected by Canadian wildfires, hit an index of 196. Other regions in the Northeast and Midwest approached 500, a level deemed hazardous.
Due to air quality considerations, officials announced at 4 p.m. ET that the game, originally scheduled for 7:10 p.m., would be moved up an hour. This decision proved wise, considering the circumstances.
“I didn’t think it was bad until the last couple of innings. Eyes itching, burning a little bit,” said Mets infielder Brett Baty. Carson Benge mentioned it felt like sitting near a campfire. “It was fun, but it didn’t feel great playing ball with it, though.”
Mets pitcher Christian Scott noted discomfort, “felt like I was breaking some metal.” Phillies player Bryce Harper, mic’d up during an ESPN broadcast, expressed that playing in such conditions was “not the greatest idea.” Pitcher Aaron Nola commented that the “smoky” environment was “not ideal.”
Interim managers, Don Mattingly and Andy Green, downplayed the air’s impact on gameplay. Both Mattingly and Phillies outfielder Brandon Marsh praised umpire Dan Iassogna for consistently checking air quality to ensure player safety.
Green acknowledged rising concerns if visibility diminished further. Marsh noted the umpires regularly checked on players to see if they had breathing issues. “It felt like it could affect the game at any moment,” Green shared. Marsh appreciated the umpires’ proactive approach, “It was cool to see them check if we were good to go.”
The Phillies avoided outdoor batting practice with Mattingly stating a preference for minimizing field time. Though both teams have a day off before their next game on Saturday, Mattingly had not heard discussions on moving the schedule.
An MLS match in Chicago was postponed, highlighting widespread air quality concerns. Improved air conditions will be crucial for Sunday’s World Cup final between Argentina and Spain at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey.
Stay updated with Fox News Digital sports coverage on X and subscribe to the Fox News Sports Huddle newsletter for more information.