The Venezuelan Winter League has suspended Texas Rangers catcher Yorvit Torrealba for 66 games following his altercation with an umpire this weekend. Torrealba was ejected from a game before proceeding to strike an umpire in the face. The 66 game ban means that Torrealba will be suspended for the remainder of this season and all of next year.
Following a swinging strikeout, Torrealba turned and began yelling in the home plate umpire’s face. After waiving his hands in the air and shouting within inches of the umpire’s mask, Torrealba took an open palm and struck the umpire in the face. The umpire took several steps back following Torrealba’s blow, but was able to remain on his feet.
Jose Grasso Vecchio, the president of the Venezuelan Winter League, said that the ban couldn’t be for any less than the 66 games because the league has been combating violence in stadiums and during contests for some time. Of Torrealba’s actions, Vecchio said “there was a clear act of aggression that violates the statutes of the league”. Vecchio said the act is “unacceptable” and the ban is “meant to serve as an example” to other Venezuelan Winter League players and fans.
Torrealba extended an apology for his actions to “all parties” involved. Specifically, Torrealba said he reached out to the Rangers organization as well as the umpire that he hit. Torrealba noted that he is “embarrassed” by his conduct and that he regrets his actions.
The Rangers have acknowledged the incident, but are not expected to take further disciplinary action against Torrealba. Though he will not be able to play in the Venezuelan Winter League through next season, the suspension will have no impact on Torrealba’s status for the 2012 Major League Baseball season.
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