Baltimore Orioles pinch hitter Ryan O'Hearn exploded on an umpire after being ejected for arguing a bad strike call during his at-bat in Wednesday's game against the New York Mets.
It happened as O'Hearn was brought into the game to pinch hit for Austin Slater in the top of the eighth with the bases loaded and nobody out with the Mets holding a 3-2 lead. On the 1-0 pitch, Mets reliever Jose Butto threw an 82 mph sweeper that appeared to be outside. However, home plate umpire Marvin Hudson called it a strike. O'Hearn shook his head and indicated to Hudson that he disagreed with the call.
O'Hearn struck out swinging on a changeup and was clearly angry, as he had more words for Hudson as he walked back to the dugout, most likely pertaining to the earlier call in the at-bat that Hudson missed. Hudson apparently did not like what was said because he ejected O'Hearn. At that point, O'Hearn erupted, turning back towards Hudson and getting into his face to release his frustration.
We don't blame O'Hearn for being angry here, as Hudson was clearly wrong on the earlier strike call. It is a shame that the player has to pay for an umpire's bad call, as there is no punishment for the umpire and no way for the player to appeal. That may change soon, as the minor leagues are experimenting with reviews and challenges of balls and strikes. Hopefully that comes to MLB soon.
The Orioles were able to score a run in the eighth to tie the game, but the Mets hit a walk-off home run to win the game 4-3. The Orioles fell a half game back of the Yankees in the American League East, while the Mets are a game and a half back of Atlanta in the National League Wild Card race.
[ESPN]
Moonlighting as a blogger to pursue my interest and enjoyment of sports. Former high school and Division I athlete (now a "retired" family man) that loves watching and discussing all sports. Follow me on Twitter (@HoldoutSports) and like Holdout Sports on Facebook.
