The MLB has handed down a three-game suspension to Pittsburgh Pirates pitcher Chris Devenski for intentionally throwing at Cincinnati Reds infielder Sal Stewart during Saturday's game at PNC Park, as announced on May 5. The incident, which occurred in the sixth inning, saw Devenski ejected without warning after a pitch narrowly missed Stewart. Umpires unanimously agreed the throw was deliberate, leading to the ejection and subsequent discipline.
Pirates manager Don Kelly will also serve a one-game suspension for his role in the heated exchange. The league's swift action underscores a zero-tolerance policy on dangerous pitches, especially in a season where player safety remains a top priority.
Stewart, a key contributor to the Reds' impressive 20-15 start, has been on a tear at the plate. Currently slashing .252/.338/.504 with nine home runs in 35 games, his 129 OPS+ ranks second on the team behind Elly de la Cruz's 147. His offensive firepower has been a driving force behind Cincinnati's early surge.
When asked about the incident after the game, Stewart expressed relief that the umpires took action. "It was pretty blatantly obvious," he said. "I have no clue why it happened. No one said anything." He noted that he was simply waiting on the pitch clock when the ball came dangerously close to his ribs. "I saw 17 seconds on the clock, so I waited a second and called time. Next thing you know, the ball was running through my ribs. I really don't know what happened."
Devenski's suspension begins May 5 as the Pirates start a road series against the Arizona Diamondbacks, with Kelly also serving his ban during that game. This marks only the second suspension of the MLB season, following an early April scuffle between the Los Angeles Angels and Atlanta Braves that resulted in seven-game bans for pitcher Reynaldo Lopez and slugger Jorge Soler.
For fans and players alike, this incident serves as a reminder of the fine line between competitive fire and player safety in today's game. Whether you're gearing up for the next big series or just enjoying the action, staying protected on and off the field is always a smart play.