Yahoo Sports MLB suspends Jesse Winker and David Bell one game after benches-clearing incident
The Cincinnati Reds will be without their manager and one of their best hitters for one game. David Bell and Jesse Winker were suspended one game by MLB after a benches-clearing incident Saturday.
That incident occurred during Game 2 of Saturday’s doubleheader against the Chicago Cubs. In the fourth inning, Cubs pitcher Adbert Alzolay threw a pitch up and in to Shogo Akiyama. The Reds dugout — led by Joey Votto — didn’t appreciate the pitch, leading to an on-field confrontation. No punches were thrown, but Bell, Votto and Winker were ejected from the game.
As a result, both Bell and Winker received one-game suspensions from the league. Both men also received undisclosed fines for their actions. Votto also received a fine from MLB, but he was not suspended.
The Cubs didn’t come out of the confrontation completely unscathed. Coach Mike Borzello was suspended one game and fined for “excessive arguing, using inappropriate language, and failing to leave the dugout.”
When will Jesse Winker serve his suspension?
MLB notes that Bell will serve his suspension during Monday’s game against the St. Louis Cardinals. Borzello will serve his suspension when the Cubs resume play against the Pittsburgh Pirates on Tuesday.
Winker decided to appeal his suspension and will be available for Monday’s game, according to C. Trent Rosecrans of The Athletic. Winker could still serve a one-game suspension in the future depending on what MLB rules after a review.
Though Winker would miss only one game, his absence would hurt the Reds. Winker has been one of the club’s best hitters this season, with a .320/.431/.691 slash line. Winker is also tied for the team lead with 10 home runs.
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