What is a hidden ball trick in baseball?
A hidden ball trick is a play where a fielder, typically an infielder, deceives a runner into thinking they don't have the ball, then tags them out.
Sports / MLB
San Diego Padres third baseman Manny Machado's attempt at a hidden ball trick against the Boston Red Sox backfired, ultimately costing his team a run in their game on Saturday, August 9, 2025. The play occurred in the third inning and contr...
During the third inning of Saturday's game between the Padres and Red Sox, Manny Machado attempted a hidden ball trick with Jarren Duran on third base. However, reliever Wandy Peralta was on the pitcher's rubber at the time. According to MLB rules, the pitcher cannot be on the rubber during a hidden ball trick attempt. Third base umpire Scott Barry immediately called a balk, allowing Duran to score and giving the Red Sox a 2-1 lead. Trevor Story also advanced to third on the play. Despite the error, the Padres rallied to win the game 5-4 in 10 innings, with Ramon Laureano singling in Xander Bogaerts for the game-winning run.
A hidden ball trick is a play where a fielder, typically an infielder, deceives a runner into thinking they don't have the ball, then tags them out.
Because the pitcher, Wandy Peralta, was on the rubber at the time of the attempted tag. MLB rules state the pitcher cannot be on the rubber during such a play.
Third base umpire Scott Barry made the call.
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