Bryce Harper ejected from Nationals-Pirates game

Third base umpire John Hirschbeck ejected last year's NL Rookie the Year for arguing a third strike call.

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PITTSBURGH (AP) Washington Nationals left fielder Bryce Harper has been ejected by third base umpire John Hirschbeck for arguing a checked-swing third strike.

Harper tried to hold up on a 2-2 pitch from Pirates left-hander Wandy Rodriguez in the first inning Sunday, and home plate umpire Bob Davidson pointed to Hirschbeck for help. Hirschbeck ruled that Harper had swung.

Harper stood outside the batter's box, stared at Hirschbeck for a few moments and dropped his bat. Hirschbeck then gave last year's NL Rookie the Year the thumb.

It was the second ejection of Harper's career. Harper was also thrown out of a game last Aug. 29 against the New York Mets by C.B. Bucknor for spiking his helmet after grounding into a double play.