After Butch Hobson is ejected in the bottom of the 12th inning for arguing a close call at first base, the Columbia Mets manager yanks the bag out of the ground and brings it into the clubhouse in protest. The bounced skipper is convinced to return the base to the field because the team has only one set of bases, but not before he sprays it bright orange to make the bag easier to see for the umpire.

This Day In Baseball

On August 3, 1987 — After Butch Hobson is ejected in the bottom of the 12th inning for arguing a close call at first base, the Columbia Mets manager yanks the bag out of the ground and brings it into the clubhouse in protest. The bounced skipper is convinced to return the base to the field because the team has only one set of bases, but not before he sprays it bright orange to make the bag easier to see for the umpire.

Source:
Baseball Reference August 3
National Pastime
Retro Sheet
Hall of Fame
SABR Games Project
Replay The Game