Kyle Freeland Returns to the Mound After Giants Brawl
The Colorado Rockies are set to see Kyle Freeland back on the mound, just a few days after a heated confrontation during a game against the San Francisco Giants. The left-handed starter, who was ejected in the first inning of that game, will take the ball again on Friday in a matchup against the San Diego Padres.
Freeland’s Quick Turnaround
Freeland’s brief outing on Tuesday—just eight pitches in total—will not hinder his return to action. The Rockies announced on Thursday evening that he would be the starting pitcher for the series opener against San Diego, marking a swift comeback. This unconventional pacing means Freeland will pitch on what would typically be a bullpen day following a normal start, but the events of Tuesday were anything but routine.
The Incident That Led to Ejection
The drama unfolded early in Tuesday’s game when Freeland allowed a two-run home run to Giants slugger Rafael Devers. Following the home run, Devers took his time rounding the bases, prompting Freeland to express his frustration. “I found it extremely disrespectful to show me up like that in the first inning,” Freeland said. “After hitting the home run, standing there watching it, taking your sweet time getting down to first base.”
The situation escalated quickly, with both players exchanging words before they rushed towards each other. In the chaos, Giants third baseman Matt Chapman intervened, pushing Freeland away as tensions flared and both benches emptied. Along with Freeland, Giants second baseman Willy Adames was also ejected, while Chapman received a one-game suspension, which he has appealed.
Reactions and Aftermath
The fallout from the altercation has drawn various reactions, including commentary from Giants pitcher Logan Webb. He remarked on Freeland’s confrontational demeanor, suggesting that such incidents were not entirely unexpected. “Just kind of runs his mouth,” Webb noted, hinting at Freeland’s history of engaging with opposing hitters.
As the Rockies prepare for their upcoming series, the rest of their rotation for the weekend has yet to be confirmed. With Freeland’s return, fans will undoubtedly be watching closely to see how he responds to the recent controversy on the mound.
