MLB Reveals Kiner-Falefa's World Series Slide Was Not as Close as Thought

The league says the Dodgers catcher's foot was on the plate in time, changing the perception of the infamous play.

Mar. 11, 2026 at 6:10pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

MLB has revealed that Isiah Kiner-Falefa's slide into home plate in Game 7 of the 2025 World Series, which would have given the Toronto Blue Jays their first championship since 1993, was not as close as it appeared. According to the league, replay showed Los Angeles Dodgers catcher Will Smith's foot was on the plate before the ball hit his mitt, meaning Kiner-Falefa was out by a larger margin than the naked eye suggested. This new information could alter how the play is remembered by Blue Jays fans.

Why it matters

The controversial play at the plate in the deciding game of the World Series was one of the most discussed moments of the offseason. MLB's revelation that the call was correct changes the narrative around the play and how it will be viewed historically.

The details

In the final inning of Game 7, Kiner-Falefa attempted to score the go-ahead run for the Blue Jays. Replays initially showed a close play at the plate, with Smith appearing to barely beat Kiner-Falefa's slide. However, MLB has now stated that after reviewing all available angles, the replay official determined Smith's foot was on the plate when the ball reached his mitt, meaning Kiner-Falefa was out by a larger margin than it seemed.

  • In the bottom of the 9th inning of Game 7 of the 2025 World Series on November 1, 2025.

The players

Isiah Kiner-Falefa

An eight-year MLB veteran who was playing in his first World Series with the Toronto Blue Jays.

Will Smith

The Los Angeles Dodgers catcher who made the play at the plate to record the out on Kiner-Falefa.

Carlos Febles

The Toronto Blue Jays third base coach who reportedly drew a line in the basepath to show Kiner-Falefa where he should take his lead.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“Didn't realize that it was actually going to be that close of a play. If I was a step further, yeah, I would have been safe. But I wasn't.”

— Isiah Kiner-Falefa

“Turns out he needed a few more feet, not inches.”

— Ben Walker, Associated Press Writer

What’s next

The play will continue to be debated by Blue Jays fans, who were left heartbroken by the team's narrow defeat in the World Series.

The takeaway

MLB's revelation about the Kiner-Falefa play changes the perception of one of the most controversial moments in recent World Series history, showing the play was not as close as it initially appeared. This could impact how the play is remembered and discussed going forward.