Reds 1B Votto gets 2-game suspension for tantrum; has appealed

Cincinnati Reds' Joey Votto (19) argues with umpire Bill Welke after being thrown out of the game for arguing balls and strikes during the eighth inning of a baseball game against the Pittsburgh Pirates, Wednesday, Sept. 9, 2015, in Cincinnati. (AP Photo/John Minchillo)

Cincinnati Reds first baseman Joey Votto has been suspended for two games as a result of his actions after arguing balls and strikes in Wednesday's game. He also was fined an undisclosed sum.

Votto has appealed the suspension.

The incident stemmed from Votto's dissatisfaction with home-plate umpire Bill Welke's strike zone. It was an ongoing issue throughout the game but came to a head on a called second strike in eighth inning. Votto was ejected, slammed down his helmet and threw a classic tantrum.

In 137 games this season, Votto is hitting .317/.460/.561 with 27 homers, 31 doubles and 71 RBI. He leads the majors with 123 walks.