The Kansas City Royals committed three errors on a single play against the New York Mets on Tuesday night, gifting the Mets an early three-run lead in what has been described as one of the most unusual scoring sequences of the Major League Baseball season.
The bizarre play began with a slow roller hit by Mets outfielder Carson Benge toward the pitcher. Royals starter Seth Lugo fielded the ball but his off-balance throw to first base sailed wide, allowing Benge to reach safely for the first error.
As Benge advanced to third base, a subsequent throw from first baseman Jac Caglianone went into foul territory, moving Benge closer to home. With Benge rounding third and heading for the plate, a relay throw from third baseman Nick Loftin also went astray, allowing Benge to score. The Royals' three errors on the play led to three unearned runs for the Mets, who took a 3-0 lead before Kansas City had even batted.
While the Royals managed to tie the game at 9-9 by the fifth inning, the initial defensive collapse provided an early, unearned advantage for the Mets.