Astros' Jose Altuve Ejected from Game for Shoe Protest

Background

Houston Astros second baseman Jose Altuve was ejected from a game against the Los Angeles Angels on Saturday after removing his shoe and sock in protest of a called third strike. The incident occurred in the top of the ninth inning with the Astros trailing 5-3. Altuve took a called third strike on a 3-2 count from Angels pitcher Ryan Tepera with two runners on base. Altuve appeared to be arguing with home plate umpire John Tumpane about the call before walking back to the dugout. Altuve then took off his right shoe and sock and threw them towards the dugout before being ejected by Tumpane.

Umpire Explanation

Tumpane explained his decision to eject Altuve after the game, saying that Altuve had "used abusive language towards me" and had "thrown his equipment in the direction of the dugout." Tumpane also said that Altuve had been warned about his behavior earlier in the game.

Altuve declined to comment after the game, but Astros manager Dusty Baker said that he understood Altuve's frustration. "He's a competitor," Baker said. "He wants to win. He's passionate about the game. I think he just got caught up in the moment."

The Astros went on to lose the game 5-3.