Watch Texas score bizarre run after Russell Martin’s throw hits batter

The Texas Rangers scored a go-ahead run against Toronto in their pivotal playoff game tonight when a throw back to the pitcher by Blue Jays catcher Russell Martin deflected off the hand of batter Shin-Soo Choo and into play.

The bizarre play, which was originally ruled a dead ball, touched off a lengthy delay and caused the Blue Jays to play the deciding Game 5 of the American League division series under protest.

Fans littered the field with debris during the delay as umpires sorted out what might be one of the most unusual plays in playoff history.

With Rougned Odor at third base and two outs, Martin's throw back to the mound appeared to hit the hand of Choo, allowing Odor to sprint home as the ball rolled up the third-base line, giving Texas a 3-2 lead.

Home plate umpire Dale Scott initially ruled it a dead ball but Rangers Manager Jeff Banister argued that the play was still live. After the umpires huddled to discuss it, Odor was sent home.

According to Major League Baseball rule 6.03(a)(3), the batter is not to be charged with interfering with the catcher if the batter is still in the batter's box and doesn't make a movement to block or disrupt the throw.

The Blue Jays rallied in the bottom of the inning to take a 6-3 lead on Jose Bautista's three-run homer after Josh Donaldson's fielder's choice scored the tying run.