Mar. 9, 2013; Phoenix, AZ, USA: Mexico players fight with Canada players in the ninth inning of the World Baseball Classic at Chase Field. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports
Further reaction continues to come out in response to this afternoon’s brawl between Canada and Mexico during Round 1 action of the World Baseball Classic. We knew at the time that a number of players had been ejected from the game for their actions during the brawl – though it was also obvious that some that should have been ejected, had not, since they were still in the game. Reports now confirm that seven players were indeed thrown out of the game.
For Mexico, those ejected include Oliver Perez, Andrew Albers, Alfredo Aceves, Arnold Leon, and Eduardo Arredondo. Leon was the pitcher on the mound who’s intentional hit by pitch had started much of the 9th inning fireworks. Aceves was noticeably involved in the altercation, specifically with Canadian outfield Tyson Gillies (who was not among those ejected).
Rene Tosoni, Pete Orr, and Jay Johnson were removed from the game for Canada. Tosoni was the batter hit by Arnold’s pitch at the start of this all.
It remains unclear if any players will be suspended during WBC play. Rules stipulate that a player suspended during the tournament must sit out the remainder of that year’s games, so such a move could prove costly for either team that is able to advance into Round 2.
It would also appear that an unnamed Canadian player gestured towards the pro-Mexico crowd on his way back into the dugout, inciting some further animosity between the two sides and bringing the fans into the situation. Objects were thrown and one of the Canadian players was reportedly hit with a bottle, according to Doug Miller at MLB.com, nearly sending players into the stands. Security was able to squash any further incidents before they could develop.