Kevin Gausman Ejected After Historic 53-Pitch Inning in Loss

NEW YORK — Toronto Blue Jays pitcher Kevin Gausman was ejected by home plate umpire Chris Conroy during the third inning of Sunday’s doubleheader against the New York Yankees. Gausman threw 53 pitches in that inning, tying the franchise record held by Woody Williams since 1998.

Gausman, who had a solid start to the game, giving up only one run in the first two innings, struggled in the third. After walking five hitters and allowing two hits, he faced a bases-loaded situation when Austin Wells hit a double off the wall to bring in three runs, ending Gausman’s day with his team down 6-1.

Following the double, Gausman was visibly frustrated with multiple ball-strike calls made by Conroy. As he exited the field, he expressed his displeasure, resulting in his ejection even though he had already been removed from the game.

Blue Jays manager John Schneider was also ejected later in the game for arguing a strike call on Vladimir Guerrero Jr. in the fifth inning.

The Blue Jays faced pitching challenges due to Gausman’s early exit, as they needed to cover a minimum of 18 innings across two games. Paxton Schultz took over but faced pressure as the game progressed. Gausman’s performance saw his ERA rise from 3.16 to 4.50, and he nearly matched his career-high in walks with five.

Gausman started the season strong, pitching to a 3.61 ERA and having a mix of impressive outings. He recorded a zero-strikeout game against the Mets in early April but rebounded with ten strikeouts in a subsequent matchup against the Red Sox. Sunday’s performance marks a notably uncharacteristic collapse for the pitcher.

Despite the struggles, Gausman’s talent remains intact, with fastball velocity fluctuating between 89 and 96 mph. The Blue Jays, dealing with the uphill battle of a doubleheader, now look to regroup ahead of the second game.