Arizona Diamondbacks pitcher Merrill Kelly publicly challenges Cubs third-base coach Quintin Berry amid an apparent sign-stealing controversy, using profane language, according to multiple reports. The confrontation occurs during Chicago’s game against Arizona, with Kelly stepping off the mound and directing his comments at Berry.
Reports say the issue centers on what Kelly believes was improper conduct by a coach rather than by players. Kelly is quoted as arguing that sign stealing by players can be part of baseball, but that he views it as “bush league” or inappropriate if a coach is involved. The accounts differ slightly in wording and emphasis, but they consistently describe a heated exchange tied to Kelly’s belief that Berry was relaying signals or otherwise helping the Cubs.
One outlet frames Kelly’s criticism as “B.S.” directed at Berry, while another emphasizes that the moment escalates on-field tempers during the Cubs’ win. Overall, the sources agree that Kelly’s allegations are linked to his perception of coaching impropriety during the game.
