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Washington Loses RF Ritter, Suspended by League: Washington right fielder Larry Ritter was suspended 3 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, Ritter did not display the qualities of sportsmanship and good conduct expected of our players."
Press reports commented on Ritter's profanity-laced tirade that was audible to the many parents and children seated near home plate.
A contrite Ritter accepted responsibility for his behavior in yesterday's Rough Riders-Dallas game. Following a called third strike, Ritter 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," Ritter 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, Ritter received a 3-game suspension today from the Commissioner's Office.
This year Ritter has hit at a .242 clip with 31 hits, 2 home runs, 12 RBIs and 13 runs scored.
Press reports commented on Ritter's profanity-laced tirade that was audible to the many parents and children seated near home plate.
A contrite Ritter accepted responsibility for his behavior in yesterday's Rough Riders-Dallas game. Following a called third strike, Ritter 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," Ritter 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, Ritter received a 3-game suspension today from the Commissioner's Office.
This year Ritter has hit at a .242 clip with 31 hits, 2 home runs, 12 RBIs and 13 runs scored.