Houston Astros star Jose Altuve was ejected for the second time in his MLB career after throwing his helmet and bat when umpires called him out on what appeared to be a foul ball.
The incident occurred in the seventh inning against the New York Mets on Sunday, with Houston leading 4-2 and runners on second and third with two outs. Altuve seemed to foul a ball off his left foot, but it was fielded by third baseman Mark Vientos, who threw to first as Altuve remained in the batter’s box.
James Jean, umpiring behind the plate for the first time after his major league debut on Friday, did not signal a foul ball.
Altuve argued, and manager Joe Espada came onto the field. The four umpires conferred, but the call stood as it was not subject to video review, and crew chief Alan Porter signaled the out.
Altuve then slammed his helmet and bat, leading to his ejection.
His first ejection occurred on August 6, 2016, when he was tossed during the seventh inning of a 3-2 loss against Texas for arguing after a called third strike by Porter.