In a dramatic clash at Citi Field, the Houston Astros emerged victorious over the New York Mets with a 10-5 triumph in an 11-inning contest. This game, however, was marked by a rare event: the ejection of Jose Altuve, the Astros' star second baseman, for only the second time in his MLB career.
Controversial Call Sparks Ejection
During the seventh inning, with the game hanging in the balance, Altuve appeared to foul a ball off his left foot. However, the play was ruled an inning-ending groundout by crew chief Alan Porter. Altuve, visibly frustrated by the call, tossed his bat and helmet, prompting his ejection by umpire James Jean, who was behind the plate for the first time since his major league debut just days earlier.
Reflecting on the incident, Altuve expressed his dissatisfaction: "They didn't see it. I understand the guy behind the plate didn't see it because the catcher's there, but you have another three guys -- first, second and third. I felt like it was kind of obvious. That's why I was so mad."
Altuve’s Career and Reaction
Altuve's ejection is a rare occurrence, with his first one dating back to August 6, 2016, during a game against the Texas Rangers. This latest incident underlined the intensity and stakes of the current season for the Astros as they battle to improve their standing.
The decision not to review the call via video replay added to the frustration, especially given Altuve’s pivotal role and impressive stats this season, which include a .304 batting average, 13 homers, 37 RBIs, and 13 stolen bases. Astros' bench coach Joe Espada supported his player, stating, "The ball kind of took a different direction once it hit the ground, to [Mark] Vientos. And [if] someone was going to get out of the box, second and third, and beat a ball out at first base, it's Jose Altuve. So if he's arguing, that ball hit him. And it looked like the ball hit him to me."
Astros Rally in Extra Innings
Despite Altuve’s ejection, the Astros managed to regroup and secure the win. In the 11th inning, Jake Meyers delivered a go-ahead single off Mets pitcher Matt Festa. Joey Loperfido followed with a two-run single, and Trey Cabbage's two-run double further extended the Astros' lead, sealing their 10-5 victory.
Jake Meyers highlighted the significance of the win, particularly in light of the team’s efforts to rise above the .500 mark for the first time this season. "It was a goal to get to .500 before All-Star break. It kind of shows that we've been grinding through the season, ups and downs," Meyers noted.
Seasonal Turnaround
Opening the season with a dismal 7-19 record, the Astros found themselves at a low point, struggling with a 12-24 mark before May 9. However, a remarkable turnaround in June, where they posted a 17-8 record, breathed new life into their campaign. Their recent win against the Mets elevated their season record to 42-41, a testament to their perseverance and resilience.
Espada echoed this sentiment, stating, "I never lost faith in this group. I know that we were down, but we were not out, and I'm not surprised that we are where we are."
Looking Ahead
As the Astros continue their season, the victory over the Mets symbolizes more than just a single win—it marks a significant step in their quest to assert themselves as contenders. They will need to maintain this momentum and resolve as they face the challenges ahead. With key players like Altuve leading the charge, the Astros remain a force to be reckoned with in the competitive landscape of Major League Baseball.