Full Breakdown
Davis Martin Ejected After Back-to-Back Pitches Near Sal Stewart’s Head
8/14/2026, 8:47:44 AM
The Incident and Immediate Outcome
In the third inning of the series-finale at Rate Field, Chicago White Sox starter Davis Martin delivered two consecutive high-inside pitches toward Reds rookie first baseman Sal Stewart. The first sailed over Stewart’s head; the second clipped his helmet, knocking it off. Stewart pointed his bat at Martin and raised two fingers, prompting both benches and bullpens to empty. No punches were thrown, but umpires convened and, without issuing a warning, ejected Martin—the first ejection of his career. The Reds went on to win 9–8, scoring four runs in the fourth inning to take an 8–4 lead after the White Sox had briefly led 4–3 when the ejection occurred.
Background to Martin’s Season
Martin entered the game after a stretch of poor starts. He earned his ninth win on May 14, 2025 against Cincinnati, but had not recorded a victory since June 10. Over his last five starts he allowed 23 runs, with 15 in the first inning. At the time of the incident his record stood at 9-6 with a 4.17 ERA, which rose to 4.32 after the loss.
Timeline
- May 14, 2025 – Martin defeats the Reds 4–2.
- June 10 – Last win before the Thursday game.
- Thursday (series finale) – First-inning home run by Stewart; back-to-back high pitches; Martin ejected; Reds win 9–8.
Data & Statistics
- Final score: Cincinnati Reds 9, Chicago White Sox 8.
- White Sox lead at ejection: 4–3.
- Martin’s line: 4 runs, 2 hits, 3 walks over 2 1/3 innings; charged with the loss.
- Relievers Erick Fedde (3 innings) and Trevor Richards (2 2/3 innings) held the lead before the rally.
- Stewart’s performance: solo 419-foot home run in the first inning, later reached base four times and drove in two runs.
Official Statements & Responses
White Sox manager Will Venable said Martin had no intent to hit Stewart and noted a blister on his middle finger that may have affected his grip. He added Martin would be available for his next start if the injury healed. Reds manager Terry Francona called the second pitch “terrible” and “dangerous,” while veteran Eugenio Suárez said the incident was “obvious” and “not right.”
On-the-Ground Reports
The benches cleared quickly, and umpires restored order after a brief huddle. White Sox catcher Edgar Quero intervened to keep Stewart from advancing toward the mound.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
Sources differ on whether the umpires considered issuing a warning before the ejection. Some accounts note that “no warnings were issued,” while others suggest a warning “might have been appropriate.” No official clarification has been provided beyond Porter’s statement that intentional targeting warrants immediate removal.
Implications for Chicago
Martin’s ejection forces the White Sox to rely on the bullpen deeper into the series and raises the prospect of a suspension, which could affect the rotation ahead of a three-game set against the Detroit Tigers. Manager Venable stressed the team’s ability to rebound, but the loss of a starter adds pressure to maintain the 3 ½-game lead in the American League Central.
