New York Mets star pitcher Max Scherzer was ejected during Wednesday’s game against the Los Angeles Dodgers after a foreign substance check on his glove (NY Times). Scherzer had pitched three scoreless innings, allowing just one hit and two walks with three strikeouts when he was asked to show his glove to the umpires, who then found something on it (USA Today). The incident caused a heated conversation between Scherzer and the officials, leading to his ejection (Fox News).
This event might have a long-lasting effect on Scherzer’s season, as he could be facing a 10-game suspension following the controversy (Sports Illustrated). However, Scherzer contended that his hand was sticky due to sweat and rosin, nothing else (NY Post). It remains unclear what will come out of this situation.
Despite Scherzer’s ejection, the Mets managed to pull off a victory thanks to Brandon Nimmo’s 5-for-5 performance, including a homer, and six innings of solid work from the bullpen (NY Post). Nevertheless, the topic of foreign substances in baseball has been a controversial issue this season, with umpires checking pitchers more often and players showing frustration towards the rules (CBS Sports).
In Scherzer’s case, the umpires decided to check his glove after he switched it out following a previous substance check (The Athletic). The fact that a foreign substance was found on his glove could raise questions about other pitchers and whether they have been using substances to improve their performance (NY Times).
Scherzer is a well-known name in baseball, having won three Cy Young awards and being named an All-Star eight times throughout his career (USA Today). He is considered one of the best pitchers in the game, with an impressive record of 178-98, a 3.17 ERA, and 2,939 strikeouts (NY Post).
The controversy surrounding Scherzer’s ejection and potential suspension might affect the Mets’ season, as they currently sit one game behind the Philadelphia Phillies for first place in the National League East (NY Post). The team will have to adjust to playing without their star pitcher, at least for the time being.
The debate about foreign substances in baseball is likely to continue, and this incident involving Scherzer is just one example of the challenges the league faces in regulating this issue (NY Times).
