MLB gives Kittredge fine, 3-game suspension
Pitcher plans to appeal, would serve penalty next season
ST. PETERSBURG -- Andrew Kittredge received a three-game suspension and an undisclosed fine from Major League Baseball on Saturday for throwing a pitch near Austin Romine's head in Thursday's contest between the Rays and Yankees.
In addition, Yankees left-hander Carsten Sabathia received a five-game suspension and an undisclosed fine for intentionally throwing at Jesus Sucre after warnings had been in place in Thursday's game.
"I understand, I do, I get it," Rays manager Kevin Cash said. "I had some really good conversations with MLB, [chief baseball officer] Joe Torre and [senior vice president, baseball operations] Peter Woodfork. And you know what? Kitt, from my understanding, will go through the appeals process and kind of let it be heard, his viewpoint. And then go from there."
Both suspensions, if upheld, will be served at the beginning of the 2019 season.
Kittredge told reporters that "it's likely" he will appeal, but added, "That's a discussion I have to have with my agent."
Sabathia, who also hit Jake Bauers on his right hand with an inside fastball in the first inning, was ejected immediately after hitting Sucre, which Sabathia said after was an act of retaliation. The incident was in response to Kittredge throwing near Romine, who exchanged words with Sucre, the Rays' catcher, before resuming the at-bat.
Yankees manager Aaron Boone was also ejected after Sabathia hit Sucre.