Diamondbacks’ Josh Rojas, Torey Lovullo ejected in 6th inning vs. Astros

Arizona Diamondbacks third baseman Josh Rojas and manager Torey Lovullo were ejected on Wednesday in the sixth inning of the 5-2 win vs. the Houston Astros.

Rojas took a called third strike from Astros RHP Justin Verlander, his third strikeout in just three at-bats against Houston’s ace.

Josh Rojas and Torey Lovullo have been ejected by umpire Alan Porter. pic.twitter.com/n4DUe0v4mj

— Bally Sports Arizona (@BALLYSPORTSAZ) September 29, 2022

Clearly frustrated, Rojas slammed the bat into the ground earning an automatic ejection from home plate umpire Alan Porter.

Rojas did not realize he was ejected till a few moments after the event.

D-backs’ broadcaster and former manager Bob Brenly pointed out that many umpires around the league will recognize that the batter struck out for the third consecutive time and give them a longer leash or even just an equipment fine.

Arizona sent RHP Zac Gallen to the bump against the AL Cy Young favorite Verlander on Wednesday night.

After Gallen received two runs before taking the mound, he yielded just a two-run home run to Chas McCormick through seven innings.

The D-backs’ ace tossed seven innings, six hits, six strikeouts, one walk and two earned runs.

Verlander recovered nicely after the first inning, finishing with seven innings, six hits, eight strikeouts, one walk and only one earned run.

In his last 11 starts, Gallen has only allowed four or more hits four times.

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