Chad Whitson, the veteran home-plate umpire, found himself in the spotlight Thursday night at Citi Field, though not for the play on the field.
In a tense ninth-inning moment, Mets manager Carlos Mendoza was visibly upset about a called ball on a full count during Edwin Díaz’s inning-ending appearance. Mendoza fired off complaints from the dugout, prompting Whitson to snap back on the mic: “I can’t make them up. I’m not a magician!”
Watch the video incident here:
"I can't make them up, I'm not a magician"
— Jomboy Media (@JomboyMedia) June 12, 2025
Umpire Chad Whitson has had enough of Carlos Mendoza😂 pic.twitter.com/0tIcdf43CF
The exchange quickly went viral, with social media users applauding Whitson’s sharp reply. Notably, this is not the first hot mic moment we have seen this season from an umpire or a manager. Earlier this season, Diamondbacks manager Torey Lovullo went bonkers as he tried to eject umpires for throwing him out.
Mets Hold Off Nationals in Close 4-3 Win
Despite the hot mic moment, the Mets managed to secure a thrilling 4-3 win over the Washington Nationals. New York jumped out early, taking a 4-0 lead with early RBI from Jeff McNeil and Brandon Nimmo. Diaz, however, loaded the bases in the ninth, turning a comfortable finish into a heart-pounding finale.
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But Diaz ultimately closed the door, striking out the side to earn his 15th save. The Mets improved to 45-24 on the season, continuing their fight in the competitive NL East.
The Mets will now host the Tampa Bay Rays on Friday at Citi Field.
Also Read: “Prove Yourself” – Brewers Fans Fire Aaron Civale After His Bold Request From The Team
