Houston Astros pitcher Ronel Blanco was ejected from a game against the Oakland Athletics for using a foreign substance on his glove. Umpires confiscated Blanco’s glove and he was ultimately ejected from the game. Major League Baseball has cracked down on the use of foreign substances by pitchers in an effort to limit their dominance on the mound. Blanco, who has been a standout for the Astros this season, is now facing a likely 10-game suspension for his actions.
Blanco’s ejection is part of a trend in MLB where pitchers have been penalized for using foreign substances to increase spin rates on the ball. This crackdown began in 2021 when pitchers were found to be using sticky substances to enhance their performance. The use of these substances leads to more break on the ball, making it harder for batters to hit. Blanco’s ejection marks the sixth pitcher to be ejected for using foreign substances since the crackdown began.
The issue of foreign substances came to a head last year when players like Max Scherzer and Domingo German were ejected and suspended for using illegal substances on the mound. Scherzer, who was with the New York Mets at the time, was ejected for using a combination of sweat and rosin, both of which are legal substances individually but can create a tacky feel when combined. German, despite a perfect game, was also penalized for using foreign substances in a game.
The Astros, who have been a dominant team in recent years, are off to a slow start this season with a record of 15-26. The team has made it to the ALCS seven straight seasons but is struggling to find their footing in the current season. Blanco’s ejection adds to the challenges that the team is facing as they try to turn their season around and make a push for the playoffs.
Overall, the issue of foreign substances in baseball continues to be a point of contention for the league and its players. The crackdown on the use of these substances has led to multiple ejections and suspensions for pitchers who are found to be using illegal substances on the mound. As the season progresses, it will be important for players and teams to adhere to the rules set forth by MLB in order to maintain the integrity of the game and ensure fair competition for all involved.
