Houston Astros pitcher Ronel Blanco, known for throwing a no-hitter earlier this season, was ejected from a game against the Oakland Athletics after a foreign substance check. First-base umpire Erich Bacchus felt something sticky inside Blanco’s glove, leading to the ejection. Third-base umpire Laz Diaz ultimately tossed Blanco after confirming the foreign substance with the rest of the umpires and discussing the issue with Astros manager Joe Espada. Blanco denied using an illegal substance, claiming it was likely rosin that got into his glove from sweat.
Despite being ejected, Blanco had already allowed four hits and struck out one batter. The Astros went on to win the game 2-1 in the 10th inning thanks to Victor Caratini’s RBI single. Major League Baseball implemented stricter rules regarding foreign substances in 2021 due to pitchers using them to increase spin rates and decrease offensive production. Blanco, who has been a standout for the Astros this season with a no-hitter in his first start and a 2.08 ERA, is now the sixth pitcher to be ejected for a foreign substance since the crackdown.
Blanco’s ejection came as a surprise given his success this season and limited experience in the major leagues. Despite the setback, he will likely face a 10-game suspension for using a foreign substance. The incident reflects MLB’s ongoing efforts to maintain fair competition by cracking down on illegal practices that give pitchers an unfair advantage. The Astros, who are currently in a strong position in the league standings, will need to adjust to Blanco’s absence in their rotation during his suspension.
Blanco’s ejection highlights the ongoing debate in baseball over the use of foreign substances by pitchers to gain an edge on the mound. While some argue that it is necessary to regulate these substances to ensure fair play, others believe that it is a longstanding practice that should be allowed within certain limits. As the league continues to monitor and enforce rules regarding foreign substances, players like Blanco will need to adapt their game to comply with the regulations and maintain their performance on the field. The incident also serves as a reminder that even top players are subject to consequences for violating the rules of the game.
