Los Ángeles Angels DH Jorge Soler, and Atlanta Braves starting pitcher Reynaldo Lopez each received 7 game suspensions stemming from their roles in the on field brawl earlier this week.
In addition to the 7 game ban, each player was also issued an undisclosed fine per MLB senior VP of on field operations Michael Hill. Both suspensions are subject to the appeals process, with reports indicating that Lopez’s suspension has been reduced to 5 days following a grievance from the Player’s Union Wednesday evening.
As a result of the reduction, Lopez is now unlikely to miss a start in the Braves rotation. The reduction likely bodes well for Soler’s appeal, as some had speculated that Lopez could have faced a lengthier suspension for using the ball as a weapon in the on field melee.
“It’s just a shame, the situation and how things unfolded,” López told reporters via an interpreter. “On my part, there was never any intent to hit him at any point. So, again, it’s just a shame.”
“I asked him if everything was OK and the answer he gave me, I didn’t like it,” Soler told media following the game via an interpreter in the Angels clubhouse. “That’s why I went out there.”
“Obviously, I have good numbers against him,” Soler continued. “After the home run and getting hit by a pitch after that, and then he missed way too high and close to my head. At this level, you can’t miss like that.”
Atlanta is currently off on Thursday, and will begin a series against the Guardians on Friday. Bryce Elder, Martín Pérez, and Chris Sale are scheduled to throw during the homestand. They can then turn to Grant Holmes, or José Suarez as options for the series opener against the Marlins before Lopez is eligible to return.
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