Benches clear, punches thrown in Rainiers-Express scuffle at Cheney Stadium
A benches-clearing brawl erupted in Friday night’s game between the Triple-A Tacoma Rainiers and Triple-A Round Rock Express, leaving both clubs awaiting potential discipline.
With the Rainiers down to their final strike in the ninth inning, third baseman Patrick Wisdom’s second hit by pitch in as many innings sparked shoving — and eventually punches — before the Express secured a 9-7 win at Cheney Stadium.
Express right-hander Emiliano Teodo’s 101-mph sinker plunked Wisdom in his side, prompting both dugouts to clear before Wisdom could reach first base. Tacoma’s third baseman remained near the bag as tempers briefly cooled, but shoving broke out near the first base dugout that extended the altercation for roughly 30 seconds.
Wisdom and Rainiers coach Jacob Nottingham were ejected by home plate umpire Jared Duerson, along with Express center fielder Gilberto Celestino.
MLB/MiLB have yet to announce potential suspensions as of Saturday evening.
Wisdom’s hit by pitch loaded the bases and put the game-winning run aboard with two outs in the ninth inning, but Connor Joe grounded out to third base on the next pitch, ending Tacoma’s comeback bid.
Wisdom and Round Rock’s Celestino were announced in Saturday night’s lineups at Cheney Stadium.
