It's that time of spring training when players and umpires alike really bear down and try to get ready for the upcoming regular season. So, naturally, ump Joe West ejected catcher A.J. Pierzynski for arguing balls and strikes Wednesday night.

The Atlanta Braves trailed the New York Yankees in the top of the sixth with Brian McCann batting and a 2-0 count, and Pierzynski could not quite frame the next pitch by Arodys Vizcaino for a strike. Pierzynski did not turn around completely, but it was easy to tell by his body language and that of West that a disagreement about the pitch's location had begun. After he had come set but before Vizcaino could throw another pitch, West called time and turned to the Braves dugout to inform them that Pierzynski had been thrown out.

It was the most minimalist thumb gesture in ejection history by West, who walked over toward the Braves dugout to discuss the matter further with manager Fredi Gonzalez as Pierzynski, appearing kind of surprised, chatted with McCann near home plate.

Did A.J. have a beef? Well, this unscientific screen cap says:

A.J. Pierzynski.
Looks kind of low. (MLB.tv)

Maybe?

It's only been five days since Gonzalez was ejected after one pitch for arguing balls and strikes with Dan Iassogna. Like manager, like catcher.

Also, as The Sporting News notes, it's nice to see Gonzalez and Pierzynski possessed by the living spirit of Bobby Cox, who was ejected a record 161 times and 140 with the Braves.

Umpire Joe West wasn't gonna hear it from A.J. Pierzynski (left).
Umpire Joe West wasn't gonna take it from A.J. Pierzynski (left). (USATSI)

Spring training can have a misleading atmosphere, with its palm trees, cacti and berms of fans laying back and enjoying a cold one. At some point, the guys on the field have to get serious about work. And some of that work involves getting run by the umpire.

The Braves are close to being ready for opening day. Joe West definitely is ready.