Joc Pederson Aug 15, 2023; San Francisco, California, USA; San Francisco Giants designated hitter Joc Pederson (23) is called safe at home plate during the eighth inning against the Tampa Bay Rays at Oracle Park. Mandatory Credit: Ed Szczepanski-USA TODAY Sports
MLBBy Arthur Weinstein on

San Francisco Giants star Joc Pederson is probably that kid who always promptly wrote his Thank You cards when he got a gift.

Pederson quickly showed his thanks Tuesday night to an umpire in a bizarre sequence in the Giants win against the Tampa Bay Rays.

The DH reached first on a fielder’s choice in the bottom of the eighth. Michael Conforto then doubled to left, and Pederson — never known as a speedster — impressively raced around the bases. He made a great slide to avoid the tag at home plate, but the play was close … very close.

As he finished sliding across the plate, Pederson yelled “Safe!” and spread his arms wide. A millisecond later, home plate umpire Chad Whitson agreed, ruling him safe.

An elated Pederson, still sitting in the dirt, pointed at Whitson and cracked a huge smile.

The Rays challenged the call, but it stood after review. Give credit to Whitson for being in the perfect spot to make the call.

And give credit to Pederson for a hilarious, heartfelt reaction that made the MLB world laugh.

“I haven’t smiled much watching the Giants of late, but Joc Pederson just made me laugh out loud,” tweeted one fan.

“Joc pointing at the ump after that safe call made my night,” noted another fan.

About Arthur Weinstein

Arthur spends his free time traveling around the U.S. to sporting events, state and national parks, and in search of great restaurants off the beaten path.

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