Unexpected Early Exit

Milwaukee Brewers starting pitcher Dustin May’s outing on Wednesday night against the New York Mets took an unfortunate turn, lasting only one pitch. May was struck by a 106 mph line drive off his own 96 mph fastball to Mets center fielder A.J. Ewing during the bottom of the first inning. The forceful impact sent the ball directly to third baseman David Hamilton, who successfully retired Ewing at first base.

Immediate Repercussions

Despite the out, May paid a significant price. Clearly in discomfort, he bent over, clutching the area of impact as trainers attended to him. Attempting to regain composure, May threw warm-up pitches but ultimately felt uneasy.

“When I threw it, it felt fine,” May explained. “Sitting there for a couple seconds after — threw the next one and it didn’t feel right. They were more on the cautious side of, better to be safe now and protect you for later.”

He was removed from the game due to a bruised right scapula. However, he remains optimistic about making his next start.

“I think it all just depends on how I feel (Thursday),” May added. “Now that I know nothing is structurally wrong, I feel better.”

Relief Pitchers Step Up

With May out, manager Pat Murphy relied on the bullpen for the remainder of the game. Murphy lightheartedly commented on the situation.

“We planned just using May as an opener,” Murphy quipped. “Parts of six (innings for Gasser) — great, really great. Made big pitches at big times.”

Robert Gasser replaced May, marking his first relief appearance in the major leagues. Gasser excelled, pitching 5 1/3 innings and conceding only one run. Subsequent pitchers Grant Anderson and Bryse Wilson were also effective, allowing three hits in 3 1/3 shutout innings.

“Definitely something I haven’t had to experience before,” Gasser remarked. “I didn’t even sit down out there.”

May’s Season So Far

The Brewers acquired May from the St. Louis Cardinals at the trade deadline. His 2026 season has included 25 starts, resulting in a 6-8 record with a 4.56 ERA over 124 1/3 innings. As the Brewers continue their series against the Mets, they aim to secure the rubber match on Thursday at 7:10 p.m. ET.