Bauer, Reds' Bell upset about Castellanos suspension
Cincinnati Reds manager David Bell and Los Angeles Dodgers right-hander Trevor Bauer aren't fans of Nick Castellanos' two-game suspension for "instigating a benches-clearing incident" against the St. Louis Cardinals over the weekend.
Bauer - who won the National League Cy Young award last year as a member of the Reds - tweeted his support for his former teammate and scolded the league for its decision.
MLBs note to players. Don’t get excited about big moments or play with intensity, we will fine you and suspend you if you do... #FreeNickCastellanos
— Trevor Bauer (トレバー・バウアー) (@BauerOutage) April 5, 2021
Bell also came to his player's defense.
"I am disappointed that Nick was suspended even though he did not initiate physical contact," Bell said, according to Bobby Nightengale of the Cincinnati Enquirer. "I am hopeful that when baseball is played with emotion, the players will be protected from dangerous and unnecessary retaliation."
Cardinals pitcher Jake Woodford hit Castellanos with a pitch on Saturday, after which the slugger came around to score on a play that had the pitcher covering home plate. The two made contact and, after he was ruled safe, Castellanos stood up and celebrated while standing over Woodford.
Woodford, Yadier Molina, Nolan Arenado, and Jordan Hicks took exception to Castellanos' celebration and were all fined for their involvement. No punches were thrown, and Castellanos was the only player ejected.
Castellanos is appealing the decision.