New York Mets reliever Drew Smith's appearance in Tuesday night's Subway Series game against the New York Yankees was cut short due to a sticky substance check. During the seventh inning, umpire Bill Miller inspected Smith's hands, ultimately ejecting him from the game before he could even throw a pitch. Smith reacted with a smile as he left the mound.
Umpire Bill Miller ejects New York Mets relief pitcher Drew Smith during the seventh inning. (AP Photo/Frank Franklin II)
This incident follows MLB's recent crackdown on sticky substances, with notable cases like Max Scherzer's 10-game suspension earlier this year for a similar violation. Smith maintained his innocence after the game, claiming he only used sweat and rosin. He expressed frustration with the seemingly inconsistent application of the rules, suggesting the process varies from umpiring crew to crew.
New York Mets relief pitcher Drew Smith argues with umpire Bill Miller. (AP Photo/Frank Franklin II)
Miller confirmed Smith's ejection was due to the stickiness of both his pitching hand and glove hand. John Curtiss stepped in for Smith, pitching two innings of one-hit ball and recording two strikeouts. At the time of Smith's ejection, the Yankees held a 7-6 lead, which they maintained to win the game. Starting pitchers Max Scherzer and Luis Severino both struggled, surrendering six runs each.
New York Mets relief pitcher Drew Smith reacts to being ejected. (AP Photo/Frank Franklin II)
Smith is now likely facing a 10-game suspension, adding to the challenges of a season in which he currently holds a 4.18 ERA with 28 strikeouts in 26 appearances.
