Cubs’ Keegan Thompson suspended for hitting Brewers’ Andrew McCutchen with pitch
Incident Overview
Chicago Cubs pitcher Keegan Thompson has been suspended for three games after hitting Milwaukee Brewers outfielder Andrew McCutchen with a pitch during a recent MLB matchup. The incident occurred in the fourth inning, escalating tensions between the two teams.
Details of the Play
McCutchen was struck on the arm by a fastball, forcing him to leave the game temporarily. Although he later returned, the play prompted warnings from the umpires to both benches. MLB reviewed the incident and determined that Thompson’s pitch was intentional, leading to the suspension.
MLB Statement
“The league takes player safety seriously. Following review, Keegan Thompson has been suspended for three games without pay for intentionally hitting Andrew McCutchen.” – MLB Spokesperson
Impact on Cubs
The suspension affects the Cubs’ pitching rotation, as Thompson will miss his next scheduled starts. Manager David Ross stated that the team will adjust accordingly, emphasizing that player safety remains a priority.
Impact on Brewers
For the Milwaukee Brewers, McCutchen returned to the game but was visibly shaken. The team expressed concern over player safety and highlighted the ongoing intensity of Cubs-Brewers matchups in the National League Central division.
Past Incidents Between Teams
| Date | Incident | Outcome |
|---|---|---|
| May 2022 | Bench-clearing brawl | Multiple suspensions and fines |
| July 2023 | Hit-by-pitch controversy | Warnings issued by umpires |
Quotes from Players
“It was an unfortunate pitch, but I’m focused on recovery and getting back out there.” – Andrew McCutchen
“I regret the incident and will learn from it. My goal is to compete hard without causing harm.” – Keegan Thompson
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- Q: How long is Keegan Thompson suspended?
A: Three games without pay. - Q: Was the pitch intentional?
A: MLB determined it was intentional after reviewing video and game context. - Q: Will this affect Cubs’ playoff chances?
A: The impact is limited but requires adjustments in the pitching rotation.
Conclusion
The suspension of Keegan Thompson highlights MLB’s commitment to player safety and enforcing fair play. While tensions ran high during the Cubs-Brewers matchup, both teams are now focused on moving forward and maintaining competitive integrity on the field.
