Celebrations in sports, especially in MLB, are passionate, reckless, and intense.
A walk-off homer or a series-clinching out can really make players go nuts on the field, jumping around and pushing each other in a temporary state of extreme happiness.
Once the winning team goes to the clubhouse, the risk is even larger: champagne bottles, alcohol, slippery floors, and too little caution.
Houston Astros pitcher Lance McCullers, who was expected to start Game 3 of the American League Championship Series against the New York Yankees, had to push that start back one day because he had a champagne bottle hit his elbow in the last celebration.
That celebration took place when the Astros swept the Seattle Mariners in the AL Division Series, so the team kept that one hidden for a few days.
McCullers Is Not Taking Any Chances Anymore
After beating the Yankees in the Bronx on Sunday night, McCullers and the Astros made sure his arm was well-protected from unwanted champaign bottles or any objects harming his right elbow.
“Lance McCullers Jr. is wearing an elbow guard during the celebration,” MLB insider Jon Morosi tweeted, with a laughing face.
Lance McCullers Jr. is wearing an elbow guard during the celebration. 😂 @MLBNetwork
— Jon Morosi (@jonmorosi) October 24, 2022
McCullers started Game 4 on Sunday, and wasn’t very sharp: in five innings, he allowed eight hits and four runs, three of which were earned.
He gave away one free pass and struck out six: he wasn’t his stellar self, but did manage to keep the Astros in the game, which was huge as they were able to complete a come-from-behind victory.
He will be needed for the World Series, and is probably the third-best pitcher in a stacked rotation.
It’s important to keep that elbow healthy, locked, and loaded.
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