For the first time, it looks like MLB's new rules about foreign substances have unearthed a wrongdoer: Mariners pitcher Hector Santiago.
Santiago was subjected to a foreign substance check in the fifth inning of Seattle's game against the White Sox and was ejected by home plate umpire Phil Cuzzi. The umpires kept Santiago's glove for evidence after his departure from the field.
Hector Santiago becomes the first MLB pitcher ejected for suspected foreign substance use since the new rule was implemented.pic.twitter.com/MWusU7Cskm
— Sporting News (@sportingnews) June 27, 2021
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However, Santiago claimed after the game that the substance on his glove was rosin.
"He [Cuzzi] said he felt some sticky stuff on the inside of the glove," Santiago said, per ESPN. "All I used was rosin. I used it on both sides, trying to keep that sweat from dripping down to the hands."
Santiago's glove will be tested. That's why it was wrapped up after he was tossed.
Santiago pitched 2 1/3 innings before his ejection. He allowed one run on three hits and struck out four.
The Mariners may now be without Santiago long-term in wake of his ejection, as players caught using foreign substances are subject to 10-game suspensions via MLB's revised foreign substance rules, implemented on June 21. Seattle will not be able to replace Santiago on the roster if he is, in fact, guilty of using a foreign substance.
Santiago, 33, has played in MLB since 2011 and has pitched for six different organizations. The veteran has posted a 2.65 ERA in 17 innings pitched this season, with 23 strikeouts in nine appearances during his first season with the Mariners.
