| 12/31/2016 | ||||||
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 | C Sakei Given 2-Game Suspension Thursday, August 27th, 2015 Chiba Lotte catcher Togai Sakei was suspended 2 games today by the League's Vice President in charge of discipline. In an official statement he noted, "During his confrontation with the home plate umpire in today's game, Sakei did not display the qualities of sportsmanship and good conduct expected of our players." Press reports commented on Sakei's profanity-laced tirade that was audible to the many parents and children seated near home plate. A contrite Sakei accepted responsibility for his behavior in yesterday's Marines-Saitama Seibu game. Following a called third strike, Sakei started a heated confrontation with the plate umpire. "I tapped his chest protector -- I wasn't trying to hit the guy or anything -- I was just wrapped up in the game and wanted to help my team win," Sakei said after the game. "I'm getting suspended and I deserve it -- I know you can't touch the ump," he continued, and sure enough, Sakei received a 2-game suspension today from the Commissioner's Office. Sakei is hitting .252 for the season with 3 home runs, 21 RBIs and 18 runs scored. He has 36 hits in 143 at-bats and played in 46 games. |   |
