In a game between the New York Yankees and Oakland Athletics on Monday, Yankees manager Aaron Boone faced an early exit after getting ejected just two batters into the game.
The incident arose when A’s leadoff man Esteury Ruiz was hit by a pitch on his back foot to start the game. While the pitch grazed his foot, Ruiz appeared to check his swing. However, home plate umpire Hunter Wendelstedt ruled he did not swing, signaling to first base umpire John Tumpane, who agreed with the call.
Boone, confused by the call, requested a review of the hit-by-pitch, prompting an outburst from Wendelstedt. He informed Boone that he had already checked on the play and would eject him if he continued to argue.
Boone subsequently remained quiet as he perched himself on the top step of the dugout. However, a fan sitting directly behind Boone appeared to say something that Wendelstedt took exception to. The umpire immediately ejected the manager, who became enraged and tried to explain he hadn’t said anything.
Boone and bench coach Brad Ausmus pointed towards the stands, indicating the fan’s involvement, while other fans also pointed at a man in a blue pullover.
“Aaron, you’re done,” Wendelstedt exclaimed. “I don’t care who said it. You’re gone.”
Boone expressed disbelief, stating he had no involvement in the fan’s comment. Profanity-laced expressions followed from Boone, but Wendelstedt had made his decision.
Boone’s ejection marks his second this season, bringing his total to 34 since becoming the Yankees’ manager in 2018.
