Watch: Benches clear as Willson Contreras throws his helmet

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Watch: Benches clear as Willson Contreras throws his helmet

Originally posted on Ball Exclusives | By James Parker | Last updated Jun 30, 2026 11:55 PM ET

Just one day after Boston Red Sox first baseman Willson Contreras was ejected for tapping his helmet following a strikeout, he was thrown out early again on Tuesday night.

After striking out Contreras in the fourth inning, Washington Nationals pitcher Cade Cavalli yelled “Sit down, boy!”

Contreras immediately took offense to this, asking “Are you talking to me?”

The two immediately began closing the gap between each other and the benches swiftly cleared. During the scuffle, Contreras attempted to launch his helmet towards Cavalli.

Willson Contreras threw his helmet at Cade Cavalli and the benches cleared in Boston pic.twitter.com/Dj4H59qvPs

— Barstool Sports (@barstoolsports) July 1, 2026

There was plenty of pushing, shoving and shouting, but no actual punches were thrown.

Ultimately, Contreras was ejected alongside utility player Nate Eaton and interim manager Chad Tracy. For the Nationals, only right-hander Miles Mikolas was ejected.

Contreras has been open about his emotions after deadly earthquakes killed over 1,500 people in his home country of Venezuela last week.

He has since raised money for disaster relief and is publicly pushing for more aid and relief for the country. After hitting a home run on Monday night, Contreras was consoled by teammates and coaches in the dugout.

This article first appeared on Ball Exclusives and was syndicated with permission.

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