Donaldson banned one game
MLB issues suspension for ‘Jackie’ comments directed at Sox’ Anderson
Yankees third baseman Josh Donaldson received a one-game suspension and an undisclosed fine for his inappropriate comments toward White Sox shortstop Tim Anderson on Saturday, Major League Baseball announced Monday.
‘‘There is no dispute over what was said on the field,’’ said Michael Hill, MLB’s senior vice president for on-field operations. ‘‘Regardless of Mr. Donaldson’s intent, the comment he directed toward Mr. Anderson was disrespectful and in poor judgment, particularly when viewed in the context of their prior interactions.’’
Hill said Donaldson’s remarks contributed to a bench-clearing incident ‘‘and warrants discipline.’’
Multiple times during the Yankees’ 7-5 victory Saturday, Donaldson said, ‘‘What’s up, Jackie?’’ to Anderson. It was a reference to Jackie Robinson, who broke the MLB color barrier in 1947.
Donaldson also pushed Anderson off third base while making a tag during a game May 13 at Guaranteed Rate Field and had a verbal spat with Sox right-hander Lucas Giolito last season.
Sox pitching coach Ethan Katz said Donaldson’s penalty was too light.
‘‘Just one game,’’ Katz wrote on his Twitter feed. ‘‘We all saw his malice at third a week ago, then this comment with the ridiculous excuse that followed. What’s the point or message behind a 1-game suspension? This is incredibly disappointing and plain frustrating.’’
With tensions mounting Saturday, the benches cleared during the fifth inning after Sox catcher Yasmani Grandal confronted Donaldson at home plate.
Anderson said Donaldson’s comment was ‘‘disrespectful’’ and ‘‘unnecessary.’’ Sox manager Tony La Russa called it racist. Donaldson said he was referring to a 2019 Sports Illustrated story in which Anderson referred to himself as ‘‘today’s Jackie Robinson.’’
On Monday, Yankees manager Aaron Boone told reporters Donaldson talked with some of his teammates about what happened.
‘‘We continue to handle things as they come,’’ Boone said. ‘‘He’s been very forthright and open with everyone.’’
Donaldson — who said he would appeal the suspension, delaying the discipline until the process is complete — also went on the COVID-19 injured list Monday, joining teammates Joey Gallo and Kyle Higashioka. Boone told reporters all three players are ‘‘more than just not feeling well; they feel sick.’’