Incident Details
Edwin Díaz faced an unexpected setback during Sunday night's game, as he was ejected for the use of a "sticky stuff", a banned grip-enhancing substance. This ejection carries with it an automatic 10-game suspension, pending any appeal.
Second-base umpire Brian Walsh performed a routine inspection of Díaz's hand and glove. Walsh then called the rest of the umpiring crew to conduct further inspections and discuss the matter. Third-base umpire and crew chief Vic Carapazza ultimately made the decision to eject Díaz from the game. The sequence of events was captured on the live broadcast.
Game Continuation
The Mets, facing the Chicago Cubs, turned to right-handers Drew Smith and Jake Diekman to fill the void left by Díaz's ejection. Smith and Diekman impressively managed to combine for a scoreless ninth inning, securing a 5-2 victory for the Mets. Their performance was vital in maintaining the lead and ensuring the win despite the controversy surrounding Díaz.
The Use of Grip-Enhancing Substances
The use of grip-enhancing substances is a common practice among pitchers, but MLB first introduced guidelines against such substances in June 2021, aiming to curb their rampant usage. In spring training of 2023, MLB announced it would intensify enforcement of these rules, which included an increase in the frequency of checks. Díaz's ejection is a direct result of these stricter enforcement measures.
Díaz's Performance and Comeback
Edwin Díaz has had a challenging season, marking his comeback from a knee injury suffered during the World Baseball Classic. The injury sidelined him for all of 2023. Since his return, Díaz has pitched to a 4.70 ERA in 23 appearances, striking out 33 batters and walking seven over 23 innings. While his performance has shown glimpses of his former dominance, this incident adds a significant hurdle to his return journey.
Implications and Next Steps
Díaz's ejection raises important questions about the ongoing use of grip-enhancers in baseball. MLB continues to crack down on these substances, and players and teams must adapt to the stricter enforcement. MLB's efforts to maintain fairness and integrity in the game are crucial, and incidents like these serve as a reminder of the consequences of non-compliance.
The Mets will need to navigate Díaz's potential absence strategically. The team will rely on other bullpen arms to fill the void. It remains to be seen how the Mets will adjust their bullpen strategy in the face of this setback, but the team is undoubtedly aware of the stakes.
Conclusion
The ejection of Edwin Díaz is significant in the ongoing battle against illegal substances in baseball. Stricter enforcement brings higher accountability for players, and Díaz now faces a possible 10-game suspension. He and the Mets will have to adjust and respond to this setback. MLB's determination indicates a commitment to a fair and competitive environment, and how teams and players navigate these regulations will shape the sport's future.
In a period where the integrity of the game is under intense scrutiny, Díaz's ejection serves as a potent reminder of MLB's commitment to uphold the rules. The Mets, albeit temporarily without one of their key relievers, have no choice but to adapt and overcome—solidifying their resilience in the process.
Quotes
"sticky stuff"