Rangers-Astros Game 7: Abreu suspension can be served in 2024, MLB says
ARLINGTON, TX - OCTOBER 18: Bryan Abreu #52 of the Houston Astros looks to throw the ball during Game 3 of the ALCS between the Houston Astros and the Texas Rangers at Globe Life Field on Wednesday, October 18, 2023 in Arlington, Texas. (Photo by Ron
HOUSTON - Houston Astros reliever Bryan Abreu's two-game suspension for hitting Adolis Garcia with a pitch in Game 5 will be served next year.
Abreu appealed the suspension handed down by the MLB.
On Monday, the league said he will be able to serve the suspension at the start of the 2024 season.
That means the Astros reliever will be available for Game 7 on Monday night.
Abreu hit Garcia with a fastball in the bottom of the 8th inning in Game 5 after he hit a homer earlier in the game and took his time enjoying it.
Garcia responded angrily, getting into the face of Astros catcher Martin Maldonado and causing the benches to clear.
Garcia, Abreu and Dusty Baker were thrown out of the game.
Abreu appealed his suspension and pitched in Game 6.
HOUSTON, TEXAS - OCTOBER 22: Houston Astros fans hold signs that read, "Free Bryan Abreu" as Adolis Garcia #53 of the Texas Rangers walks back to the dugout after striking out against Framber Valdez #59 of the Houston Astros during the fourth inning
Several Astros fans came to the game with ‘Free Bryan Abreu’ signs and boo'd loudly whenever Garcia came up to bat.
Abreu faced Garcia in Game 6 and struck him out.
Garcia did get the last laugh in Game 6. In the 9th inning, Garcia hit a grand slam off of Ryne Stanek to ice the game for the Rangers.
Now Abreu is available in Game 7.
"That was kind of what I was hoping for when I didn't use him in a down game, 2 innings yesterday, because he told me he was prepared to throw as many innings as possible, just in case he had to serve his suspension. It's a blessing to have him for today," said Astros manager Dusty Baker after the decision was announced.
Rangers manager Bruce Bochy was not bothered by the decision.
"That's fine, I hadn't put a lot of thought in it. I thought he'd be available, so that's what they came up with, that's out of my lane to be honest, so I'm just thinking about our ballclub," the Rangers skipper said.
Abreu has been one of the Astros top relief pitchers during the playoffs with a 2.45 ERA.
He gave up one run in his one inning of work in Game 6.