Papelbon Banned 3
By Editorial Staff
Major League Baseball has banned Red Sox closer Jonathan Papelbon three games for his 9th inning altercation with umpire Tony Randazzo. Papelbon and teammate Jason Varitek were both ejected after arguing balls and strikes.
As you can see, Papelbon did end up bumping Randazzo, and it seems the contact could cost the closer three games. Papelbon was slated to begin the suspension tonight against the Yankees before appealing the ban.
Earlier in the week Papelbon was asked by reporters if he expected to miss time following the ejection.
“It’s me,” he said. “You know I don’t get away with anything. I’ve been fined for being three seconds late (between pitches).”
Papelbon has converted 11 of 12 save opportunities, but his ERA is sitting at 4.32 on the year. However, that high of a mark isn’t warranted.
The closer has an FIP of 1.98 on the year. Also, batters are getting extremely lucky against Papelbon, maintaining a BABIP of .369. Papelbon is striking out over 12 batters per 9 and walking less than 2 over the same span, registering his K/BB ratio at 8.50.