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5x Pirates All Star Sends Clear Message After Jorge Lopez Ejection

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Zach Kaplan | Last updated Apr 22, 2025 6:48 AM ET

Nationals pitcher Jorge Lopez was ejected during Wednesday's game after hitting Pirates outfielder Bryan Reynolds with a pitch and then throwing a fastball up near Andrew McCutchen's face, which led to the benches clearing.

The game before, Pirates starter Mitch Keller hit Nationals infielder Paul DeJong in the face with a pitch, fracturing DeJong's nose, a scene that Keller was clearly torn up about.

There were whisperings about Lopez throwing at Reynolds and McCutchen as retribution for DeJong's injury, and the umpires ejected him on those grounds.

Popular creator Jomboy posted an analysis on this situation and clearly believed the pitches were intentional from Lopez, but McCutchen weighed in with a surprising take.

It wasn’t on purpose
— Andrew McCutchen (@TheCUTCH22) April 21, 2025

McCutchen responded to the nine-minute video, saying "It wasn't on purpose," which is a surprise given that McCutchen is seen admonishing Lopez for the near-miss after the pitch.

McCutchen, Reynolds and Lopez have history that creates added intrigue around this story. On September 2, 2024, Reynolds hit a three-run, game-tying home run off Lopez to erase a 3-0 Cubs lead. McCutchen followed with a go-ahead solo shot, and the Pirates went on to win 5-3.

Fans chimed in on X (formerly Twitter) to voice their opinions on the near-miss and ejection.

"It sure looked sketchy. But to be fair Cutch is the most likable guy in the league. So it is kinda hard to believe someone would headhunt him," one user wrote.

"It wasn’t on purpose and Cutch can still be pissed. Especially in the moment. Just because they jawed, doesn’t mean {Cutch} felt there was intent," another wrote.

Lopez apologized after the game, stating he didn't throw any pitch at Reynolds or McCutchen on purpose.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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