Nationals' Lannan ejected in major league debut

Jul 26, 2007, 16:00 GMT

Philadelphia, PA - The Washington Nationals selected the contract of pitcher John Lannan from Triple-A Columbus for his major league debut in Thursday's 7-6 win against Philadelphia, where he was ejected in the fifth inning after hitting both Chase Utley and Ryan Howard with fastballs.

After hitting Utley on the right wrist and then Howard on the torso, Lannan was ejected by home-plate umpire Hunter Wendelstedt, who eventually tossed manager Manny Acta for arguing.

Lannan allowed five runs - four earned - on six hits with a strikeout and two walks over 4 1/3 innings.

After falling 7-5 Wednesday night at Citizens Bank Park, Washington optioned righthander Chris Booker to Columbus to open the 25-man roster spot for Lannan.

Lannan became the 22nd pitcher used by the Nats this season, and the 12th different starter. Joining Kory Casto, Matt Chico, Jesus Flores and Levale Speigner, Lannan is the fifth player to make his major league debut this season for Washington.

© 2007 The Sports Network