DENVER – Rafael Devers hit his 30th home run of the season, a hit that triggered a series of unusual events in the game.
Colorado Rockies pitcher Kyle Freeland, along with San Francisco third baseman Matt Chapman, and shortstop Willy Adames, were ejected following an incident that emptied the benches. This altercation originated after Devers hit a two-run home run in the first inning.
Devers sent the ball over the right field fence, and Freeland did not take well to the player’s celebration, yelling at him as he approached first base.
This caused several players to head to the infield, where Chapman appeared to make contact with Freeland. Adames was also involved in the scuffle.
The referees restored order before assessing the situation and announcing the ejections. It didn’t seem that any punches were thrown.
Devers waited at first base while the umpires deliberated and then ran the bases several minutes after hitting the home run.
After the ejections, the Giants had to reorganize their defensive lineup. Devers moved to third base for the first time since being traded to the team from the Red Sox in June. Christian Koss moved from second base to shortstop, Casey Schmitt entered the game at second base, and Dominic Smith took over first base.
Antonio Senzatela entered the game to pitch for the Rockies.
Devers’ 30th home run also broke a drought for the Giants. He is the first San Francisco player to hit 30 home runs in a season wearing the Giants uniform since Barry Bonds in 2004, although he hit the first 15 with the Red Sox.
