MLB Game Plays Amid Canadian Wildfire Smoke

Major League Baseball faced challenging air conditions during the first game after the All-Star break. The Philadelphia Phillies hosted the New York Mets under a sky affected by smoke from Canadian wildfires. The air quality index in Philadelphia reached an ‘unhealthy’ level of 196, while other parts of the Northeast and Midwest approached a hazardous 500.

In response to the poor air quality, the game, initially scheduled for 7:10 p.m., was moved to 6:10 p.m. This decision aimed to minimize players’ exposure to worsening conditions. During the fourth inning, the sun emitted an orange glow due to the pervasive smoke.

Mets infielder Brett Baty commented, “I didn’t think it was bad until the last couple of innings. Eyes itching, burning a little bit.” Fellow teammate Carson Benge remarked that playing felt like “sitting at a campfire.” Mets catcher Francisco Alvarez added through an interpreter that visibility became challenging towards the end of the game.

Christian Scott, Mets pitcher, equated his experience to “breaking some metal,” highlighting the physical strain under smoky conditions. Bryce Harper of the Phillies, who was mic’d up during the ESPN broadcast, expressed concerns, stating, “Not the greatest idea to come out and play in this type of weather.” Phillies starter Aaron Nola shared the sentiment, describing the environment as “not ideal.”

Despite the smoke, interim managers Don Mattingly and Andy Green felt gameplay remained largely unaffected. Mattingly praised umpire Dan Iassogna’s diligence in checking air quality and ensuring player safety. Phillies outfielder Brandon Marsh noted the umpires frequently checked on players’ well-being, which he appreciated.

“It felt like it could have [affected the game] at any moment,” Green observed, referring to the challenges in visibility as the smoke intensified. Marsh confirmed the umpires’ repeated inquiries, ensuring players did not experience breathing difficulties.

The Phillies skipped outdoor batting practice to reduce smoke exposure. Mattingly acknowledged preferring limited field time due to the air concerns.

The Mets and Phillies are scheduled to resume their series on Saturday after a break on Friday. Meanwhile, an MLS game in Chicago was postponed due to similar conditions. Officials anticipate improved air quality for the World Cup final on Sunday between Argentina and Spain at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey.