Bob Costas trips up on Anthony Volpe’s catch in another awkward Yankees-Royals call

Bob Costas hasn’t done himself any justice after he was criticized again for incorrectly calling Anthony Volpe’s catch in the New York Yankees – Kansas City Royals series.

The 72-year-old is one of the most iconic broadcasters in the sporting world but he has been accused by many MLB fans for being past his best while commentating on the series . And his mistake while covering a brilliant diving catch hasn’t eased the scrutiny over him.

Costas tripped up during the bottom of the eighth in Game 3 on Wednesday night with the Yankees leading 3-2. Vinnie Pasquantino lofted an 0-2 pitch to short center field which Costas prematurely called as a base hit, saying: “Line drive, base hit to center field,” before the ball had even touched the ground.

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“It was smothered out there. I don’t know if it was caught,” Costas said as he was left unsure whether his initial call was correct. Ron Darling, on analysis for the TBS broadcast, interjected: “It was caught!” As Volpe sat up with the ball in his hand following his diving grab, Costa released his error as the surprise in his voice could be heard as he said: “Oh my gosh. What a play.”

Costas was the former voice of NBC and a staple on the network, covering everything from the Olympics to the NBA Finals and World Series. But some fans believe that time is fast catching up to him after he was previously accused of falling asleep during Saturday night’s Royals and Yankees clash.

The post-season game saw the Yankees win the thrilling contest 6-5 and the game was marked by five lead changes, the most in a single game in MLB post-season history. However, Costas' coverage failed to inspire excitement among a number of viewers who were left unimpressed by his commentary.

One user on X tweeted: “Bob Costas is a legend, but please take him off of these playoff broadcasts, this is brutal.” While Barstool host Jeff Lowe added: "Bob Costas nearly fell asleep on the call." Fellow Barstool host Barstool Are Dee Tee said: "I can’t believe we still have Bob Costas near microphones. He’s awful."

Costas’ coverage during the playoffs also saw him picked up on a hot mic being unhappy to read a spot for CNN. “A CNN promo?” Costas asked seemingly unaware that he could be heard live. “That puts me in a difficult spot,” he added after breaking an awkward silence.

The Yankees came away with the win on Wednesday to take a 2-1 lead in the series and put themselves just one win away from reaching the ALCS.