The Texas Rangers will be handed over shortly in a few days. MLB announced a three-game suspension for pitcher Ian Gibaut and a one-game suspension for manager Chris Woodward after Gibaut slammed Manny Machado during Monday’s game.
The incident happened in the eighth inning of the San Diego Padres’ 14-4 win over the Rangers. With the Padres up by 7 runs, Fernando Tatis Jr ran a 3-0 field in the right field standing for a grand slam. The Rangers responded by throwing a pitch behind Machado, who came to Tatis on the plate.
After the game, Woodward said the Rangers did not like Tatis swinging while his team led by 7 runs. Woodward and some members of the Rangers believed that Tatis’ decision went against the unwritten rules of baseball. Jayce Tingler’s own manager, Tatis, seemed to agree, saying it was a “learning opportunity” for Tatis.
MLB players have the back of Fernando Tatis Jr.
While Woodward and Tingler were not happy about Tatis’ swing, a number of MLB players – both current and former – came out on Tuesday in support of Tatis.
Hall of Fame catcher Johnny Bench was among those who had no problem with Tatis hitting the grand slam.
That you take a pitch … now you’re 3-1. Then the pitcher comes back with a great set up pitch … 3-2. Now you are ready to start in a double play. Everyone would have to go 3-0. Grand Slams are an enormous stat. @tatis_jr https://t.co/4D3ilsD9Sh
– Johnny Bench (@ JohnnyBench_5) August 18, 2020
Chris Woodward will serve his suspension immediately
Woodward, 44, will serve his suspension in Tuesday’s game. Don Wakamatsu will serve as team manager for the match. Gibaut, 26, has appealed the suspension, and will be allowed to continue playing until his appeal is heard.
Gibaut and Woodward also received undisclosed fines for their actions.
