Willson Contreras throws bat at coach during explosive ejection

In the United States, during a baseball game between the St. Louis Cardinals and the Pittsburgh Pirates, Willson Contreras experienced a volatile incident on August 20, 2025. Contreras was ejected from the game after a strikeout in the seventh inning, which ignited a dramatic confrontation with home plate umpire Derek Thomas. As he walked back to the dugout, he expressed frustration towards the umpire, claiming that the calls were not fair for both teams. In response to this perceived injustice, Contreras was held back by several coaches, including manager Oliver Marmol, but his agitation escalated further. In a shocking display, Contreras threw his bat, which made direct contact with first base coach Brant Brown. This act of frustration not only drew attention to Contreras's temper but also resulted in Marmol being ejected as well for his own vocal dissent. Crew chief Jordan Baker later revealed that both Contreras and Marmol had used vulgar language during the incident. Contreras defended himself by stating that he merely wanted equal treatment regarding the umpire's calls and had not engaged in any aggressive argument with the official. Despite the ejection, Contreras had performed adequately during the game, achieving one hit and two RBIs before being thrown out, contributing to the Cardinals' competitive edge and eventual victory against the Pirates. This incident raises broader questions about player behavior and the treatment of players by umpires, highlighting the emotional stakes involved in professional sports. Following this outburst, Baker indicated that the league would review the incident and the related ejections. There is potential for consequences for both Contreras and Marmol as the league considers the offensive conduct exhibited during the game. The Cardinals celebrated their win, improving their standings, while Contreras reflected on the chaotic sequence of events that unfolded on the diamond, emphasizing the high-pressure environment that players often navigate in significant games.