Sergio Romo ready to strip for foreign substance checks

Major League Baseball’s latest decree that every pitcher is to be checked for foreign substances at some point in time with their outing, usually after the first inning, is causing issues. Pitchers do not like the rule, with some willing to make a mockery of the scene. Umpires are clearly uncomfortable in enforcing it and are stuck in a bad spot. Then there is Sergio Romo, who clearly wants none of this nonsense.

As has been the case with every pitcher, Romo was approached to be checked at the end of the inning. However, unlike any other player, he was willing to show the umpire and fans far more than they asked for.

Sergio Romo ready to strip for substance check

As we have seen with other pitchers, Romo tossed his gear on the ground. His hat and glove were expected. The belt? A little strange, but since it gets checked also, he may as well. However, pulling down his pants was the true icing on the cake.

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One has to wonder how far he would have gone had the umpire not stopped him. Would the jersey have come off next? Would Romo have just left a pile of equipment and his uniform on the diamond, heading to the dugout in his boxers and cleats? If the A’s are looking for a way to increase ratings, maybe Romo can add more items to the pile every time he pitches.

It might happen. Max Scherzer, who was subjected to multiple searches during his outing on Tuesday, threatened to get naked as well. Clearly, the pitchers do not have any respect for this rule, think that it is a joke, and are turning it into an absolute farce. Equipment is being thrown on the ground, random items are handed to umpires, and pants are being dropped.

Maybe Major League Baseball will smarten up. Maybe they will realize this idea that umpires will search pitchers after an inning or during the outing is complete nonsense, especially since it is not like Gaylord Perry or Joe Niekro are on the mound. However, it is more likely that Romo gets naked the next time out than MLB or Rob Manfred doing something right.

Sergio Romo showed his annoyance at MLB’s substance checks in a memorable way. After all, it’s not every day a player starts stripping on the diamond.