ARLINGTON, Texas — Torii Hunter has appealed a two-game suspension that he believes is a “little harsh” for his equipment-throwing outburst after being ejected earlier this week.
Major League Baseball also fined the Minnesota Twins outfielder an undisclosed amount Friday for his tantrum during Wednesday’s home game against the Kansas City Royals.
Hunter was in the Twins’ lineup Friday night, batting second and playing right field, for the series opener at Texas.
“I didn’t expect two games,” Hunter said. “I got ejected, so I knew something was going to come down.”
After being tossed by home plate umpire Mark Ripperger for arguing a called third strike in the eighth inning Wednesday night, Hunter briefly had to be restrained.
Hunter then yanked off his elbow pad, shin guard and batting gloves and threw them toward the batter’s box. Before retreating to the dugout, he ripped off his jersey and threw that, as well.
Hunter talked about his emotions after the game and said that even umpires have bad days.
“I’m a passionate guy, this is my job, and I come to do my job well,” Hunter said Friday. “And I expect you to do your job as well.”
The Twins lost that game 7-2, ending a 1-5 homestand that dropped them out of the American League Central lead.
Hunter said he wasn’t sure when the appeal would be heard.
“I have no idea, I’ve never appealed. I’ve always accepted my punishment,” Hunter said. “I understand the punishment now, but I just think it’s a little harsh right now.”
Thumbnail photo via Marilyn Indahl/USA TODAY Sports Images
