Seattle's Sexson Suspended Six Games For Role In Near-Melee

Seattle, WA. (AHN) - Seattle's Richie Sexson, who charged the mound Thursday night after avoiding a high-hard pitch from Texas starter Kason Gabbard, was handed a six-game supsension Friday afternoon.

Bob Watson, Major League Baseball's vice-president of on-field operations, called Sexson's actions, which included throwing his helmet at Gabbard and clenching his arms around the pitcher, "violent and aggressive."

Sexson should be in the Mariners starting lineup Friday night against the White Sox, however, as he immediately appealed the suspension.

The near-melee didn't include any punches, but Seattle pitcher Felix Hernandez along with Rangers players Gerald Laird and Sidney Ponson were fined for their actions.