(Houston) Houston Astros pitcher Bryan Abreu received a two-game suspension and fine from major league baseball on Saturday.
MLB officials said he intended to hit Adolis Garcia of the Houston Astros (and did) in Game 5 of the American League Championship Series.
Major League Baseball said all six umpires decided the gesture was intentional. MLB took into account the dangerous nature of pitching and its potential impact on a player’s well-being.
Abreu would be suspended from Sunday’s sixth game unless he appeals. If he chooses this path, he will be heard by John McHale Jr., special assistant to Commissioner Rob Manfred.
The throw in question led to an incident where players from both clubs stormed the field. This delayed the match for about twelve minutes.
Fines were imposed on García, his teammate Lance McCullers Jr. and Matt Bush of the Rangers.
After being ejected, Astros manager Dusty Baker stayed in the dugout for six minutes before leaving. The delay in leaving earned him a fine.
