Domingo Germán started Saturday's game against the Minnesota Twins well. Rocco Baldelli became wary of Germán's dominance of the Twins' starting lineup.
An umpire scrutinized Germán as he exited the field after three perfect innings. Umpire James Hoye focused on Germán's throwing hand after a routine pitching inspection. The umpire stayed on Germán's pitching hand and spoke with him.
For the fourth inning, Germán was checked again. The umpires and Germán had a bizarre interaction during the lengthy second inspection.
Yankees and umpires surrounded Germán during the check. Hoye advised Germán, "You have to wash your hands." Germán was still allowed to compete. Baldelli ran out to investigate as he approached the mound. Baldelli was disqualified after not getting his answer.
Germán's spin rates inexplicably fell after being advised to wash his hands.
Germán's pitching was unaffected by the repeated exams. He was perfect in the fourth and fifth innings. The sixth ruined his perfect game and no-hitter.
Germán held the Twins scoreless after the second exam. He left with a 4-0 advantage in the seventh inning. In 6.1 innings, he allowed three hits and struck out 11. Yankees won 6-1.
After the game, Yankees manager Aaron Boone said Germán left the dugout with rosin. Twins social media still mocked Germán and the Yankees.