WASHINGTON — When Bryce Harper, the Washington Nationals outfielder, was ejected from Wednesday’s game against the Yankees after arguing a low strike, there was no celebration in the Yankees’ dugout. No high-fives. No fist pumps.

But behind those stone faces and beneath those pinstripes, the Yankees’ hearts must have been lifted, for Harper’s exit gave them something they had not had moments earlier: a much better chance to win.

Harper, 22, has been one of the most talented players in major league baseball for several years, but he had recently been on a hot streak to rival some of the best hitters who ever played. Before Wednesday’s third-inning departure, Harper had hit 10 home runs in his past 12 games, including six in one three-game stretch.