Walker Buehler’s return to the mound was short-lived but certainly not without drama. In a tense and fiery third inning at Fenway Park on Tuesday, May 20, both Buehler and Boston Red Sox manager Alex Cora were ejected following a heated argument with home plate umpire Mike Estabrook over a controversial strike call — or lack thereof — during Boston’s 2-0 win over the New York Mets.
Why Were Walker Buehler and Alex Cora Ejected?
Buehler, who made his first start since being recalled from the 15-day injured list on May 2 due to soreness in his right shoulder, was trying to establish a rhythm and help a Red Sox team aiming for consistency. He lowered his ERA to an even 4.00 while striking out four and walking two in 2.1 innings, displaying glimmers of his former self.
But after a botched strike call sparked an impassioned outburst in the third inning, his night came to an abrupt end.
The incident began when Mets shortstop Francisco Lindor was hit by a pitch — one Buehler didn’t seem thrilled about, especially considering Lindor didn’t make much of an effort to avoid it. Lindor then stole second on the next pitch, a low, inside offering to slugger Juan Soto. Catcher Carlos Narváez popped up quickly in a failed attempt to throw Lindor out, and Estabrook ruled the pitch a ball.
Even the game’s broadcasters acknowledged the blown call in real time, adding fuel to the Red Sox’s frustration. Buehler, visibly furious, unleashed a profane comment toward Estabrook — a clear “F*** you” caught on camera — leading to his immediate ejection.
Walker F'n Buehler living up to his Nickname.🤬
(The pitch should definitely have been a strike)
WFB was Ejected. pic.twitter.com/lluhVmzClp
— Rob Friedman (@PitchingNinja)
Without holding back, Cora ran out of the dugout to defend his pitcher. He continued the confrontation with Estabrook before being thrown out himself. Coincidentally, it was Buehler’s second career ejection and Cora’s 18th as a manager, both against the Mets.
The mess was cleaned up by left-hander Brennan Bernardino, who walked Soto but eventually left the inning without causing further harm. To preserve a shutout victory and win the series against New York, the Red Sox bullpen held tough for the remainder of the game.
Buehler’s debut was brief, but it was a positive step in his recuperation, and his improved ERA indicates he is on the right track. Now back at .500 with a 25-25 record, the Red Sox are trying to surge ahead in a crowded American League race by relying on timely hitting and solid pitching.
While Tuesday’s game may be remembered for the fireworks between the Red Sox and the umpiring crew, it also showed the intensity this Boston team brings — one that refuses to back down, even when calls don’t go their way.