Louisville closer Michael McAvene has fallen victim to one of the worst ejections and subsequent suspensions we have seen.
McAvene was pitching in an elimination game for Louisville against Indiana in the NCAA Tournament on Sunday. He entered a 9-5 game with two outs in the top of the eighth and got the final out of the inning. Then in the ninth, he got two strikeouts before encountering some trouble. He allowed a solo home run, walk, stolen base, and RBI single to make it 9-7.
McAvene was facing Ryan Fineman and trying to get the final out. He showed some frustration after a close 2-2 pitch on the inside corner was called a ball. McAvene could be seen saying “that’s horrible” of the call by umpire Ken Langford. Then for some reason, Langford ejected him.
McAvene was stunned.
Though Michael Kirian struck out Fineman to finish the at-bat and win the game, the ejection was costly for Louisville. McAvene has been suspended four games per NCAA rules, which is the punishment for an in-game ejection for a pitcher. The suspension cannot be appealed.
Louisville lost McAvene for their two elimination games against Illinois State in the regional and the first two games of the super regional, if they were to advance. That means the earliest he would be able to return is for the third game of the super regional or the first game of the College World Series if the Cardinals make it that far.
The NCAA should step in and intervene in the situation. McAvene does not deserve a four-game suspension.
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