Seattle Mariners’ Robles Makes Waves: Bat-Throwing Incident Sparks Controversy in Rehab Game

LAS VEGAS (AP) — Victor Robles, an outfielder for the Seattle Mariners, faced an unexpected moment during a minor league game on a rehab assignment with Triple-A Tacoma. On Sunday, after nearly being hit by an inside pitch, Robles threw his bat at the pitcher, earning an immediate ejection.

In the third inning, pitcher Joey Estes fired an inside pitch aimed at Robles. To avoid being hit, Robles swung back at the ball. He took a few steps away from the plate, dropped the bat, then picked it up again, tossing it toward Estes. Umpire Joe McCarthy ejected him on the spot.

Robles, who had been hit by a pitch in three of his last four games, couldn’t contain his frustration. He approached the mound while shouting at Estes but was quickly restrained by McCarthy and Las Vegas teammates. Once in the dugout, he threw a box of snacks onto the field before heading to the clubhouse.

For context, Estes, a 23-year-old in the Athletics’ system, has faced Robles previously. In fact, they’ve matched up six times in the majors, mostly last September. Notably, Estes hit Robles with a pitch in one of their early meetings, showing a bit of history between the two players.

Robles is working his way back from a fractured humeral head and a dislocated shoulder, injuries he sustained during an impressive catch in San Francisco on April 6. The Mariners believe he needs about 40 to 50 at-bats before he can return to the injured list.

Robles signed with Seattle in June 2024 after being let go by the Washington Nationals. Last season, he made a significant impact, batting an impressive .328 across 77 games. His stats included four home runs, 30 stolen bases, and an OPS of .860. His performance led to a two-year contract extension in August, cementing his role as a vital piece of the Mariners’ future plans.

This kind of tension isn’t new in baseball; it often sparks conversations about player safety and the sportsmanship during games. According to a study by the Baseball Injury Research Institute, hit-by-pitches are on the rise, leading to various discussions among fans and analysts about the implications for player health and game strategy. This trend has been particularly noted in the last few seasons, with data showing a 20% increase in HBP cases compared to earlier years.

As the Mariners navigate Robles’ comeback, they are hopeful his return will boost their performance in the upcoming matches. With the team’s playoff aspirations on the horizon, every at-bat from Robles will be critical.

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