Controversial Call Sparks Explosive Scene at Fenway Park
The Boston Red Sox’s Tuesday night showdown with the New York Mets took a fiery turn in the third inning when both starting pitcher Walker Buehler and manager Alex Cora were ejected. The flashpoint? A questionable ball call by home plate umpire Mike Estabrook that ignited tempers and changed the tone of the game.
Buehler’s Comeback Start Ends in Chaos
Buehler, making his first start back from a shoulder injury, was dealing early until a disputed pitch — which appeared to be a strike — was called a ball during an at-bat with Juan Soto. Buehler’s immediate and vocal frustration earned him a swift ejection. It marked his second career ejection, both coming against the Mets.
Cora’s 18th Career Ejection Follows Attempt to Defuse Situation
Alex Cora attempted to mediate, reportedly pleading with Estabrook to eject him instead of Buehler in order to preserve the pitching rotation. Despite his efforts, Estabrook tossed Cora moments later, resulting in the 18th ejection of Cora’s managerial career.
Red Sox Bullpen Steps Up After Early Exit
Despite losing their starter early, Boston’s bullpen delivered an outstanding performance. Six relievers combined to limit the Mets to just four hits, preserving a 2-0 shutout victory. Brennan Bernardino entered the game following Buehler’s ejection, walking Soto but escaping further damage.
Mets’ Offensive Woes Continue in Fenway Frustration
The Mets’ lineup once again failed to produce, managing only four hits and stranding runners in key moments. Despite a strong start by Clay Holmes, who allowed two solo home runs across six innings, the Mets fell short for the seventh time in their last eight games.
Clay Holmes Solid, But Solo Shots Doom Mets
Holmes struck out five and walked three in a quality start, but solo homers that barely cleared the Green Monster proved costly. With their offense continuing to sputter, even solid pitching wasn’t enough to prevent the loss.
Broadcasters and Fans Alike Criticize Umpire’s Missed Call
The missed third-inning strike call drew criticism not only from Buehler and Cora but also from broadcasters and fans alike. Replays showed the pitch clearly catching the zone, intensifying scrutiny on Estabrook’s performance behind the plate.
Red Sox Showing Signs of Momentum
Now 25-25, the Red Sox have won four of their last five games and appear to be finding a groove. With Cora expected to return after the ejection, Boston will look to continue their surge in the next matchup.
Final Thoughts: Emotions Flare, but Boston Prevails
While the night was defined by emotional outbursts and controversial officiating, it was Boston’s resilience that ultimately sealed the victory. With Buehler hopefully healthy and the bullpen performing well, the Red Sox may have found a spark to push forward in the AL standings.
