Hinch disciplined for ejection

March 17th, 2019

WEST PALM BEACH, Fla. -- Manager AJ Hinch received a one-game suspension and an undisclosed fine for his actions and comments leading up to and following his ejection from the Astros' Spring Training game with the Cardinals on Friday.

Joe Torre, chief baseball officer for Major League Baseball, made the announcement. Hinch's suspension is to be served on Sunday, during the Astros-Braves game at Champion Stadium at ESPN Wide World of Sports.

Hinch confirmed in a statement released by the Astros minutes after MLB's announcement that he would serve the punishment.

"I’m very passionate about our players and our team, but on Friday night I made some emotional comments that took attention away from the play on the field," Hinch said. "I take responsibility for my actions and comments and accept the league’s decision. I will serve the suspension today."

Hinch had an altercation with home-plate umpire Angel Hernandez during George Springer's at-bat in the first inning. Cardinals starter Daniel Ponce de Leon’s first pitch was called a strike, bringing Hinch out onto the field and setting off an extended, heated argument with Hernandez.

First-base umpire C.B. Bucknor intervened, but as the conversation continued, Hinch became more agitated. He eventually he had to be restrained by hitting coach Alex Cintron.

After the game, Hinch gave a detailed account of what happened between the two and said Hernandez said some "condescending things that are inappropriate, unprofessional. I'll leave it at that."

Despite being suspended, Hinch was productive on Sunday at the Astros’ home complex in West Palm Beach, where he planned to watch Justin Verlander pitch in a Minor League game, scheduled for noon ET.