San Diego Padres’ third baseman, Manny Machado has been making headlines this season for his powerful hitting and outstanding defensive skills. However, in their game against the Colorado Rockies, Machado found himself in trouble for arguing a called third strike on a pitch clock violation.
The incident occurred in the top of the fifth inning with the Padres trailing 5-3. With runners on the first and second base, Machado stepped up to the plate to face Rockies’ pitcher, Antonio Senzatela. The pitch clock started to wind down as Senzatela waited for Machado to step into the batter’s box. When Machado finally took his stance, the pitch clock reached zero, and Senzatela took advantage by throwing a pitch.
However, the umpire called a ball, and with the pitch clock violation rule stating that a ball should be awarded to the batter after a violation, Machado was given the advantage of one ball and no strikes. Senzatela did not take kindly to the call, and neither did the Rockies’ manager, Bud Black.
After Senzatela’s next pitch, Machado swung and missed, prompting the umpire to call a strike. Machado was not happy with the call and argued his case forcefully with the umpire. However, his argument was cut short when the umpire ejected him from the game.
The ejection led to a confrontation between Machado and the umpire, with several players from both teams rushing onto the field to intervene. The situation was eventually brought under control, and the game resumed.
The incident is not the first time Machado has found himself in trouble with the umpires this season. The player was also fined and suspended after a verbal confrontation with an umpire earlier in the year.
In conclusion, the incident involving Manny Machado in the game against the Colorado Rockies highlights the need for players to adhere to the rules of the game. While Machado’s frustration with the call was understandable, his argument with the umpire was unacceptable, and his subsequent ejection from the game was the correct decision. It is vital for players to show respect for the referees and officials who oversee the games and maintain fair play. Failure to do so not only impacts the game but also reflects poorly on the player and the team as a whole.
