Air Quality Affects MLB Game Between Phillies and Mets

The first Major League Baseball game after the All-Star break encountered poor air conditions in Philadelphia, owing to Canadian wildfires. The Philadelphia Phillies faced the New York Mets amid an air quality index of 196, which increased concerns as parts of the Northeast and Midwest neared an index of 500, categorized as hazardous.

The game, originally set for 7:10 p.m., was rescheduled to start an hour earlier due to air quality concerns. The decision seemed prudent because Mets infielder Brett Baty noted irritation and a burning sensation in his eyes in the latter innings. Another team member, Carson Benge, likened the feeling to sitting close to a campfire.

“I didn’t think it was bad until the last couple of innings. Eyes itching, burning a little bit,” Baty commented.

Mets catcher Francisco Alvarez mentioned some difficulties seeing towards the game’s end. Similarly, pitcher Christian Scott expressed discomfort, mentioning it felt like ‘breaking some metal.’ Phillies player Bryce Harper criticized playing under such conditions during an ESPN broadcast. Phillies starter Aaron Nola also found the smoky environment less than ideal.

Interim managers Don Mattingly and Andy Green felt the air quality minimally impacted the game. Nevertheless, umpire Dan Iassogna received credit from both Mattingly and Phillies outfielder Brandon Marsh for actively monitoring the situation, ensuring player safety.

Marsh appreciated the proactive checks by umpires with the players about air quality.

“Multiple times,” Marsh noted. “They were checking with us, which was cool to see.”

To minimize exposure, the Phillies skipped outdoor batting practice. Friday offers a rest day for both teams, with the series continuing Saturday. The discussion about moving the game, however, did not take place, according to Mattingly.

On a related note, an MLS game in Chicago was postponed due to similar air quality issues. Improvements are anticipated, notably for the World Cup final between Argentina and Spain at MetLife Stadium.