Ejected from Wednesday’s contest against the Los Angeles Dodgers for allegedly using an illegal foreign substance, New York Mets starter Max Scherzer shared his side of the story.
Speaking with reporters after the Mets’ 5-3 victory, Scherzer said he vehemently pleaded with umpire Phil Cuzzi that he wasn’t using anything against the rules.
“He said my hand is too sticky, and I said, ‘I swear on my kids’ lives, I’m not using anything else,” Scherzer said, via SNY. “‘This is sweat and rosin, sweat and rosin.’ I keep saying it over and over. They touch my hand, and they say, ‘It’s sticky.’ Yes, it is because it’s sweat and rosin, and they said, ‘It’s too sticky,’ and they threw me out for that.
“I knew I was going to get checked in the fourth. I’d have to be an absolute idiot to try to do anything when I’m coming back out for the fourth,” Scherzer continued. “… I don’t get how I get ejected when I’m in front of MLB officials doing exactly what you want, and being deemed that my hand’s too sticky when I’m using legal substance. I do not understand that.”
Umpires initially made Scherzer change gloves ahead of the third inning. After the conclusion of the inning, umpires stopped Scherzer again for another equipment check. Following a heated exchange, Cuzzi ejected Scherzer from the game.
