The Los Angeles Dodgers-Arizona Diamondbacks game at Chase Field in Phoenix was delayed by nearly two hours on Tuesday night due to a colony of bees that decided to camp out atop the backstop netting. Beekeeper Matt Hilton was called in to remove the bees, using a spray to stun them before vacuuming them up to the cheers of fans. The game eventually started at 8:35 p.m. MST, instead of the scheduled 6:40 p.m. start time. Hilton even had the honor of throwing out the ceremonial first pitch after successfully removing the bees.
The delay caused by the bees didn’t stop the excitement of the game, as the defending National League champions ended up needing 10 innings to beat the Arizona Diamondbacks, 4-3. It was a thrilling night for fans even after the unexpected delay caused by the bees. A batboy first noticed the hive shortly before the scheduled first pitch, drawing the attention of Arizona manager Torey Lovullo. Lovullo expressed gratitude towards MLB for prioritizing the safety of players, fans, and everyone else inside Chase Field by delaying the game in order to address the bee situation.
The presence of bees at Chase Field on Tuesday night created a unique and unexpected challenge for both the teams and the fans. The sight of a swarm of bees gathering on the net behind home plate was certainly an unusual spectacle for those in attendance. Beekeeper Matt Hilton’s quick response and efficient removal of the bees allowed the game to eventually proceed, albeit with a significant delay. Despite the disruption, fans showed their support and excitement for both the bee removal process and the ensuing game.
The delayed start and eventual extra innings victory made for a memorable and exciting night at Chase Field for both the Los Angeles Dodgers and the Arizona Diamondbacks. The extended game served as a test of endurance for both teams, with the Dodgers ultimately coming out on top in a hard-fought battle. The delay caused by the bees may have been unexpected, but it added a unique element to the game that fans won’t soon forget. The resilience of the players in overcoming the delay and delivering an entertaining match-up made for an unforgettable evening of baseball in Phoenix.
The delayed game between the Los Angeles Dodgers and the Arizona Diamondbacks served as a reminder of the unpredictable nature of sports and the various challenges that can arise during live events. Despite the unforeseen bee situation, the teams, officials, and fans came together to ensure the safety and enjoyment of all involved. The incident highlighted the importance of preparedness and adaptability in handling unexpected circumstances, both on and off the field. Ultimately, the game’s delayed start and thrilling conclusion added an extra layer of excitement to the baseball season, creating a memorable experience for everyone in attendance.
