Pirates irate after Rizzo takes out catcher at home plate

The Pittsburgh Pirates and Chicago Cubs opened their three-game series Monday with some controversy.

During the top of the eighth inning with the bases loaded, Cubs catcher Chris Gimenez hit a ground ball to shortstop Sean Rodriguez, who corralled the ball and threw home. Pirates catcher Elias Diaz touched the plate for the first out and attempted to throw the ball to first base, but was taken out by a slide from Anthony Rizzo, resulting in the throw sailing into right field and allowing two runs to come around to score.

(Video courtesy: MLB.com)

The Pirates were upset and challenged the play, arguing that Rizzo's slide was illegal and the Cubs should've been called for the double play. After a lengthy review, the call on the field stood and Diaz was issued an error.

Pirates manager Clint Hurdle, incensed by the ruling, was ejected. Diaz was shaken up but remained in the game. The Cubs went on to win 7-0.