MLB suspends players after Red Sox-Nationals clashes

Major League Baseball has handed down suspensions following two consecutive games involving the Boston Red Sox and the Washington Nationals that saw players clash.

Red Sox hitter Willson Contreras found himself in hot water during a game against the Yankees on July 27. Dissatisfied with pitcher Will Warren's close pitches, Contreras engaged in a verbal spat that escalated, leading to both teams' benches clearing. The very next day, during a game against the Nationals, Contreras became involved in a physical altercation with Cade Cavalli after the latter exchanged trash talk. In the heat of the moment, Contreras reportedly threw his batting helmet at Cavalli.

In response to the escalating tensions, MLB's Senior Vice President of On-Field Operations, Michael Hill, announced disciplinary actions. Both Contreras and Cavalli received a seven-game suspension. Additionally, veteran Nationals player Miles Mikolas and Red Sox utility player Nate Eaton, who were also involved in the altercations, were suspended for five and three games, respectively.

The suspensions are scheduled to begin on July 5. However, if any of the suspended players decide to appeal the decision, the start of their ban will be postponed until the appeals process is concluded.