Houston Astros starting pitcher Lance McCullers Jr. exited Sunday’s start after a visit on the mound with the Astros athletic trainer. But not to worry, it was more of an equipment issue than an injury.
McCullers exited with two outs in the bottom of the fourth with what appeared to be a bloody toe. The pitcher's cleat ripped open causing his toe to drag in the dirt.
The official reason for McCuller's exit was skin irritation on his right foot, reports Houston Chronicle writer Jake Kaplan.
The Astros’ official reason for McCullers’ exit: skin irritation on his right foot.
— Jake Kaplan (@jakemkaplan) March 19, 2017
Kaplan spoke with Astros manager A.J. Hinch, who said that McCullers would have stayed in the game if it was a regular season game.
McCullers allowed two earned runs on five hits over 3 2/3 innings against the Yankees in West Palm Beach. He struck out five and walked two.
McCullers had a good laugh about his cleat blowout after the game on Twitter.
Hahaha bloody toe but yes, ya boy it A okay! https://t.co/w2inihFfMj
— Lance McCullers Jr. (@LMcCullers43) March 20, 2017