Jonathan Papelbon suspended seven games for crotch grab
By Hayden Kane
An ugly and somewhat comical scene unfolded on Sunday. Philadelphia Phillies’ closer Jonathan Papelbon was not happy with himself or anything that was happening during his outing. He then expressed his frustration with booing fans by grabbing his crotch in a rather animated and unfortunate fashion.
More from MLB
- After frantic trade day, Kiké Hernandez grateful for second chance with Dodgers
- Braves Rumors: 3 trade targets Vaughn Grissom can help Atlanta acquire
- NY Mets leave Justin Verlander in the dark at trade deadline
- This White Sox-Dodgers trade for bullpen help could lead to LA reunion
- MLB Rumors: Surprise team emerges in Cody Bellinger sweepstakes
In the moment, that action earned him an ejection from umpire Joe West. Papelbon did not take kindly to that punishment. One imagines, then, that he was not overly excited about a seven-game suspension for the incident.
Multiple reports indicate that Papelbon has been suspended for seven games, effectively immediately, and fined an undisclosed amount for his actions.
MLB announces Papelbon suspended 7 games for his crotch grab, beginning tonite #Phillies
— Joel Sherman (@Joelsherman1) September 16, 2014
The #Phillies showed their angst with Papelbon by announcing they agreed with immediate 7-game suspension, and apologize to fans.
— Bob Nightengale (@BNightengale) September 16, 2014
Papelbon gets seven-game suspension and undisclosed fine for his actions on Sunday. No appeal; effective immediately. #Phillies
— Ken Rosenthal (@Ken_Rosenthal) September 16, 2014
The Phillies have been interested in parting ways with Papelbon and his huge contract for a while now. The fact that they were so quick to agree with this suspension might further reflect how they feel about the closer.
1 exec told me watch how little support #Phillies offer Papelbon when suspension is announced as sign of deteriorated relationship (con)
— Joel Sherman (@Joelsherman1) September 16, 2014
#Phillies go further, actually put out statement in favor of MLB, show disenchantment publicly with Papelbon
— Joel Sherman (@Joelsherman1) September 16, 2014
It will require some creativity from the front office and it will likely mean that the Phillies have to absorb some salary, but here’s betting that the Papelbon trade rumors heat up this off-season.
More from FanSided
Jonathan Papelbon says he was adjusting equipment, not gesturing to fans
Clayton Kershaw strikes out nine, first in MLB to 19 wins
MLB Performances of the Week: Rookie Marcus Stroman throws complete game shutout
New York Mets expected to bring back Sandy Alderson and Terry Collins
Bud Selig: MLB, players union to meet on domestic abuse policy