Short‑Lead Lesson: A Game‑Changing Decision

Isiah Kiner‑Falefa found himself on the field in Game 7 of the World Series, poised to run from third base. With a mere 7.8 feet lead—courtesy of a season‑long rule to keep the runner close—he faced a critical decision when Daulton Varsho’s grounder rolled near the ground. Choosing to stay in front of home plate, Kiner‑Falefa hoped to break up a potential double play.

The Dodgers tied the game when Miguel Rojas launched a home run, and Toronto loaded the bases with one out. Kiner‑Falefa’s lead was among the shortest in World Series history. Varsho’s ground ball prompted a shaky throw from second base to catcher Will Smith; the catch was clean, but the short lead meant Kiner‑Falefa was ruled out. The play sparked extensive debate post‑game.

Kiner‑Falefa explained that he wasn’t thinking about speed; his focus was on stopping the double play, assuming a routine ground ball to second. He later admitted that a step or two farther might have secured his safety.

The next batter, Ernie Clement, drove the ball into a dramatic play. Center fielder Andy Pages made an impressive catch on the warning track, yet the Dodgers prevailed in 11 innings—becoming the first team to win back‑to‑back championships in 25 years.

After signing a one‑year, $6 million deal with the Boston Red Sox, Kiner‑Falefa reflected on following team policy. He stressed that no one was to blame for the play—it was simply the strategy used all season—and noted reporters rarely questioned him about it, which he found unfair.

His new contract with Boston offers up to $500 k in bonuses per plate appearance, plus additional amounts for milestones. In 2023 he posted a .262 average with two homers and 40 RBIs over 138 games, covering shortstop, third base, and second base. In the postseason he hit .162.

Kiner‑Falefa’s experience underscores how a small decision on base paths can alter a game's outcome and highlights the importance of adhering to team strategy, even when it feels risky.