The benches were cleared after O’s outfielder Heston Gerstad was hit in the head by a pitch from the Yanks’ Clay Holmes during the New York Yankees’ ninth inning against the Baltimore Orioles on Friday.
Orioles manager Brandon Hyde became angry after the pitch and began walking toward the Yankees dugout before being stopped by New York catcher Austin Wells. However, as the situation escalated, both benches were removed.
Hyde was ejected. Austin Hayes replaced Kjerstad following a hit-by-pitch. Holmes struck out the next two batters.
On paper, pitch-by-pitch looked like a fluke. The second-place Yankees entered Friday on a 6-17 skid and needed a win against the first-place Orioles. Holmes was in a save situation and he kept the count at 0-2. He was also splashing in the rain, which didn’t help his grip.
But apparently, the Orioles aren’t going to be happy about a team member being hit in the head by a 97 mph pitch. Tensions were high in the rivalry game against two teams battling for the AL East.
Judging by the post-match reaction, Kerstad’s health was crucial. Unfortunately, there is no immediate update of the game.
Yankees starter Marcus Stroman offered his best wishes.
Hyde later spoke about the moment.
So did Yankees outfielder Aaron Judge:
The Yankees and Orioles will play again in Baltimore on Saturday at 4:05 PM ET.
