ST. LOUIS (AP) — Houston Astros outfielder Michael Bourn has been suspended two games for making contact with an umpire, but remains in the lineup while he appeals.
Bourn was set to bat leadoff for the Astros against the St. Louis Cardinals on Tuesday after Major League Baseball announced the decision earlier in the day. Bourn also was fined an undisclosed amount for his actions during the 2-1 loss to the San Diego Padres on Saturday.
He said it was the first time he had been suspended.
"It was just a heat of the moment thing at the time," Bourn said. "We'll see what happens. Just go through the appeal process."
Manager Brad Mills was in full support.
"I was sad to see it was two games just because of the way it happened," Mills said. "It was just accidental, totally."
Bourn thought he beat out a bouncer leading off the ninth inning, but first-base umpire Alfonso Marquez called him out. Bourn ripped off his helmet and Marquez ejected the center fielder.
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