Tension in Boston: Neris and Red Sox in heated exchange after balk

Brawl on the field: Neris and the Red Sox star in a tense moment

Houston Astros reliever Héctor Neris was involved in an altercation with the Boston Red Sox coaching staff during Saturday’s game. The situation unfolded after Neris committed a balk that advanced a runner to third base. In the seventh inning, Neris allowed a double by Trevor Story that drove in a run. Subsequently, he committed a balk, which allowed Story to advance to third base. Finally, Carlos Narváez hit a ground ball to the shortstop, closing the inning. As Neris headed to the dugout, he exchanged words with Red Sox third base coach Kyle Hudson, which caused both benches, including the bullpens, to rush onto the field before the situation was brought under control.

Maybe. Maybe yes, maybe no.

Héctor Neris

When asked if he suspected the Red Sox were stealing signs, Neris responded cautiously. Neris, 36, refused to reveal what he told Hudson that caused the confrontation. Astros manager Joe Espada admitted he didn’t know what caused the confrontation and said he would speak with Neris to get more details.

Red Sox manager Alex Cora deferred questions about the incident and the possible sign stealing to Neris. It should be remembered that the Astros were sanctioned by MLB after it was discovered that they used electronic means to steal signs during their path to the 2017 World Series title and in the 2018 season.