According to Gordon Edes of ESPN Boston, Jonathan Papelbon has been handed down a suspension of three games and a fine of an undisclosed amount. In a statement released by the MLB front offices, the decision to suspend him was based on Papelbon’s “inappropriate actions” during Saturday afternoon’s marathon game where Papelbon argued balls and strikes and chest bumped home plate umpire Tony Randazzo. The suspension will begin immediately, which means the hot-headed right-hander will be unavailable for the three game set against the Yankees that starts tonight. Assuming the Red Sox have the lead late in the game, Terry Francona will likely turn to Daniel Bard in save situations.
If you believe Papelbon (and I do not), the altercation began after Randazzo overreacted to a comment he was made to Jarrod Saltamacchia about inconsistencies in the strikezone. From there, it escalated and Papelbon was quickly ejected; thus causing the fiery closer to spontaneously combust. I’m not absolving Randazzo of any fault. His guard was up after Jason Varitek questioned his strikezone earlier in the inning, which was the primary reason behind his short fuse with Papelbon. As such, clearly could’ve handled the situation much more effectively, and deserves at least a portion of the blame. That said, you can’t ever make contact with the umpire (unless you’re Terry Francona apparently) for any reason. It’s one of baseball’s golden rules, and Papelbon broke it. For that reason, the punishment fits the crime.
Correction: This came in shortly after I posted originally. According to Ian Browne at mlb.com, Papelbon will appeal his three game suspension, and is eligible to pitch tonight.