Incident Details
Edwin Díaz faced an unexpected setback during Sunday night's game when 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 possible appeal that might be filed. The incident unfolded during a routine inspection of Díaz's hand and glove by second-base umpire Brian Walsh. Following this initial check, Walsh called the rest of the umpiring crew to conduct further inspections and discuss the matter. Ultimately, third-base umpire and crew chief Vic Carapazza made the decision to eject Díaz from the game. The entire sequence of events was captured live on the game broadcast.
Game Continuation
After Díaz's ejection, the Mets turned to right-handers Drew Smith and Jake Diekman to close out the game. Both pitchers performed admirably, combining for a scoreless ninth inning that helped the Mets secure a 5-2 victory over the Cubs.
The Use of Grip-Enhancing Substances
The use of grip-enhancing substances like the one Díaz was found using has been a common practice among pitchers for some time. In an effort to curb this, MLB first introduced guidelines against the use of such substances in June 2021. The organization aimed to diminish the rampant usage of grip-enhancers in the sport. By the spring training of 2023, MLB announced it would intensify enforcement of these rules, which included increasing the frequency of inspections.
Díaz's Performance and Comeback
This ejection is yet another challenge in what has already been a difficult season for Edwin Díaz. This marks his comeback season from a knee injury that he suffered during the World Baseball Classic, which sidelined him for the entirety of 2023. So far, Díaz has pitched to a 4.70 ERA over 23 appearances. Despite some struggles, including walking seven batters over 23 innings, he has also shown flashes of his former dominance with 33 strikeouts.
Implications and Next Steps
Díaz's ejection raises crucial questions about the use of grip-enhancers in baseball and MLB's ongoing efforts to maintain fairness and integrity in the game. This intensified scrutiny requires players and teams to adapt to the stricter enforcement of these rules. The ejection serves as a reminder of the consequences of non-compliance, enforcing a higher level of accountability among players.
The Mets will need to strategically navigate Díaz's potential absence, relying on other bullpen arms to fill the void. The team's success moving forward will partly depend on how effectively they can cope without one of their key relief pitchers.
Conclusion
The ejection of Edwin Díaz is a significant event in MLB's ongoing battle against illegal substances. The league's stricter enforcement of the rules necessitates higher accountability from players. With Díaz facing a possible 10-game suspension, both he and the Mets will need to adjust and respond to this setback. This determination by MLB indicates a committed effort to maintaining a fair and competitive environment. Observing how teams and players navigate these regulations will be crucial in shaping the future of the sport.