Isiah Kiner-Falefa Defends Baserunning Decision in 2025 World Series Loss

Blue Jays player denies sole blame for critical play, cites team strategy and manager's support.

Published on Feb. 12, 2026

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Isiah Kiner-Falefa, the Toronto Blue Jays player, has defended his actions in the ninth inning of Game 7 of the 2025 World Series against the Los Angeles Dodgers. Kiner-Falefa was criticized by fans for his role in the play that ultimately led to the Blue Jays' loss, but he has denied taking sole blame, stating that he was following team directives. Blue Jays manager John Schneider has backed Kiner-Falefa's stance, and the player has explained his reasoning, emphasizing his priority to avoid a double play and give his teammate Ernie Clement a chance to bat.

Why it matters

The play in question became a defining moment in the 2025 World Series, with Dodgers fans celebrating the heroics of Miguel Rojas, while Blue Jays fans saw it as a symbol of their team's failure. The controversy surrounding Kiner-Falefa's decision has sparked debates about responsibility, team dynamics, and the fine margins that can determine the outcome of a championship series.

The details

In the ninth inning of Game 7, with the Blue Jays trailing the Dodgers, Kiner-Falefa was on base and made a decision that ultimately led to him being thrown out at home, denying the Blue Jays a chance to tie the game. Kiner-Falefa has since signed a one-year contract with the Boston Red Sox and has addressed the criticism, stating that he was following team directives and that the loss was not solely his responsibility.

  • The ninth inning of Game 7 in the 2025 World Series became a defining moment for Isiah Kiner-Falefa.
  • Kiner-Falefa eventually agreed to a one-year contract with the Boston Red Sox worth $6 million.

The players

Isiah Kiner-Falefa

A player for the Toronto Blue Jays who was involved in a critical play in the 2025 World Series that led to the team's loss.

Miguel Rojas

A player for the Los Angeles Dodgers who made a crucial throw to get Kiner-Falefa out at home, cementing the Dodgers' victory.

John Schneider

The manager of the Toronto Blue Jays who has backed Kiner-Falefa's stance and reinforced that the player was following team directives.

Ernie Clement

A Toronto Blue Jays player who had been outstanding in the postseason and was given an opportunity to bat by Kiner-Falefa's decision.

Yoshinobu Yamamoto

A standout performer for the Los Angeles Dodgers in the 2025 World Series.

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What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.