Pittsburgh Pirates outfielder Tommy Pham has received a one-game suspension and an undisclosed fine for his inappropriate actions towards fans during Wednesday night’s game at Angel Stadium of Anaheim. Michael Hill, Major League Baseball’s Senior Vice President for On-Field Operations, made the announcement.
During a game against the LA Angels, Pham fielded a double near the left-field wall and a fan in the first row wearing a glove reached over the wall and touched the Pittsburgh Pirates left fielder on the back. Pham wasn’t feeling the physical contact.
He turned and glared at the fan before throwing the ball to the cutoff man. After resuming his position Pham responded to the heckling by turning toward the stands and making a crude hand-jerking gesture near his crotch. The television broadcaster was caught-off guard and responded, “Well there, Tommy Pham says hello to the crowd.”
Minnesota Timberwolves star Anthony Edwards had an awkward exchange with Lakers fans during a Game 1 opening-round playoff win. The 24-year-old made gestures with his genitals and spoke obscene language to hecklers.
The suspension of Pham had been scheduled to be served Friday night, when the Pirates are to begin a series at Dodger Stadium. However, Pham has elected to appeal, so he is good to play until the appeals process is complete.
