HOUSTON — Astros pitcher Bryan Abreu received a two-game suspension for a pitch that hit Rangers' hitter Adolis García in the the eighth inning of American League Championship Series Game 5 Friday. The umps said Abreu's pitch was meant to hit García, which is why he was suspended.
Once plunked, García turned and started to go after Houston catcher Martín Maldonado and then both benches and bullpens emptied at home plate. García had to be held back.
On Saturday, the league suspended Abreu for two games and fined García and Dusty Baker an undisclosed amount of money. On Sunday, the league confirmed that Abreu appealed his suspension and would be available for the Astros on Sunday night. They said they'd meet in the next 48 hours to rule on the appeal.
In the Minute Maid Park stands on Sunday, fans were seen holding 'Free Bryan Abreu signs.' It wasn't immediately clear where the signs came from, but Apollo Media posted about them on Saturday.
The signs were evident during the broadcast and on social media.