Vladimir Guerrero Jr. got tossed after a quick ejection in a game where tensions flared over a questionable strike call. After taking a pitch on the outside corner that was called a strike, Guerrero stepped out of the box visibly frustrated. He showed the umpire up a bit, suggesting the pitch was off the plate. Frustrated, he chased a similar pitch outside on the next delivery and struck out. As he stepped away, he made a comment blaming the umpire for forcing his hand on that swing. Umpire Mike Estabrook didn’t like it and ejected him on the spot.
The ejection looked excessive, especially since Guerrero didn’t use profanity or go on a rant. Jays manager Charlie Montoyo came out to ask for an explanation. Estabrook said Guerrero told him it was a bad call and that it was on him for chasing the same pitch. Montoyo tried to clarify if Guerrero had insulted him directly, but Estabrook said that criticizing balls and strikes is enough to get thrown out. Estabrook has a reputation for being quick with the hook and inconsistent behind the plate, which only adds to the frustration for players and fans. Guerrero clearly didn’t think his reaction warranted an ejection, and the whole situation highlighted the ongoing tension between players and umpires over strike zone judgment.