MLB Delivers Consequences Following Intense Brawl

On Monday, MLB handed out suspensions and fines to players, managers, and a coach involved in a brawl during a game between the Chicago White Sox and the Cleveland Guardians. The most severe penalties were given to Tim Anderson of the White Sox and José Ramirez of the Guardians, according to CBS Sports. The altercation happened when Anderson tagged Ramirez as he slid into second base with a double in the sixth inning, sparking a 15-minute brawl.

According to USA Today, Ramirez said, “He tagged me really hard, more than needed, and his reaction was like, ‘I want to fight.'” Anderson then dropped his glove and took a boxer’s stance, as described by NBC News. Both players threw punches, with Anderson taking a hit to the face and falling down. The rest of the teams joined in the chaos, resulting in ejections from the game.

The following penalties were announced by Baseball on Monday:

• Anderson received a six-game suspension and an undisclosed fine.
• Ramírez received a three-game suspension and an undisclosed fine.
• Emmanuel Clase, the Guardians closer, received a one-game suspension and an undisclosed fine.
• Terry Francona, the Guardians manager, received a one-game suspension and an undisclosed fine.
• Mike Sarbaugh, the Guardians third base coach, received a one-game suspension and an undisclosed fine.
• Pedro Grifol, the White Sox manager, received a one-game suspension and an undisclosed fine.
• Michael Kopech, White Sox pitcher, and Gabriel Arias, Guardians infielder, received undisclosed fines.

The White Sox won the game with a score of 7-4. This weekend’s series marked the last regular-season matchup between the White Sox and Guardians until next year. (Read more bench-clearing brawl stories.)