Nationals Pitcher Jorge López Suspended for Near-Head Pitch to McCutchen
Washington Nationals pitcher Jorge López has been suspended for three games and fined by Major League Baseball for throwing a pitch near teh head of Pittsburgh Pirates’ Andrew McCutchen during a game Wednesday night. Nationals manager Dave Martinez also received a one-game suspension and a fine.
Umpire Ejects López after near Miss
The incident occured in the seventh inning after López hit Pirates batter bryan Reynolds. The subsequent pitch to McCutchen forced the veteran outfielder to duck to avoid the 92 mph fastball,leading to López ejection from the game and both teams’ benches clearing.
López Appeals Suspension; Martinez Serves One-Game Ban
López is appealing the suspension, which will be held in abeyance until the appeals process is complete. Martinez served his one-game suspension immediately.
Benches Clear After Verbal Altercation
During the umpires’ discussion following the pitch, a verbal altercation between McCutchen and López escalated the situation, prompting both benches to empty. Pirates outfielder Tommy Pham was seen shouting toward an opposing player while teammate Oneil Cruz attempted to defuse the situation.
Teams Resume Series After Tensions Flare
The Nationals (7-11) and Pirates (7-12) were scheduled to conclude their four-game series Thursday afternoon.
What factors likely contributed to both Jorge López and Dave Martinez receiving discipline from MLB?
Nationals pitcher Jorge López Suspended for Near-Head Pitch to McCutchen
Washington Nationals pitcher Jorge López has been suspended for three games and fined by Major League Baseball for throwing a pitch near teh head of pittsburgh Pirates’ Andrew McCutchen during a game Wednesday night. Nationals manager Dave Martinez also received a one-game suspension and a fine.
Umpire Ejects López after near Miss
The incident occured in the seventh inning after López hit Pirates batter bryan Reynolds. The subsequent pitch to McCutchen forced the veteran outfielder to duck to avoid the 92 mph fastball,leading to López ejection from the game and both teams’ benches clearing.
López Appeals Suspension; Martinez Serves One-Game Ban
López is appealing the suspension,which will be held in abeyance until the appeals process is complete. Martinez served his one-game suspension promptly.
Benches Clear After Verbal Altercation
During the umpires’ discussion following the pitch, a verbal altercation between McCutchen and López escalated the situation, prompting both benches to empty. Pirates outfielder Tommy Pham was seen shouting toward an opposing player while teammate Oneil Cruz attempted to defuse the situation.
Teams Resume Series After Tensions flare
The Nationals (7-11) and Pirates (7-12) were scheduled to conclude their four-game series Thursday afternoon.
Q&A: Unpacking the Jorge López Suspension
Q: Why was jorge López suspended?
A: López was suspended for three games for throwing a pitch dangerously close to the head of Andrew McCutchen. This is considered a violation of MLB’s rules designed to protect player safety.
Q: What happens during the appeal process?
A: While López appeals, his suspension is temporarily put on hold. He can continue to play until the appeal is heard and a decision is made by MLB. This process usually involves a hearing where López and his representatives can present their case.
Q: What’s the significance of the benches clearing?
A: When a pitch is perceived as intentional or dangerous, it frequently enough leads to heated words and the benches emptying as teammates rush to support their players. This is a common response in baseball when tensions rise.
Q: What’s the role of the manager in these situations?
A: Managers are responsible for their team’s conduct. Dave Martinez was also suspended for his part in the incident, highlighting how managers are held accountable for their players’ actions during a game.
Q: Can a pitcher be suspended for hitting a batter?
A: Yes. While sometimes unintentional, hitting a batter can result in an ejection and/or suspension, especially if it’s deemed intentional or if the pitch is deemed dangerous.
Q: What are the Nationals and Pirates records?
A: The Nationals had a record of 7-11 and the Pirates had a record of 7-12 at the time of the incident.
Stay tuned to see if López’s appeal is accomplished and how this incident impacts the Nationals and Pirates as they continue their season. Baseball can be a game of high emotions, but player safety always comes first.
