Overview
- MLB issued a six-game ban to Valdez following Tuesday’s benches-clearing hit-by-pitch, and gave manager A.J. Hinch one game.
- Valdez said the 94 mph fastball “stayed up,” denied intent, and called his ejection unfair while speaking through an interpreter.
- The pitch came right after back-to-back Boston home runs, and Valdez had already allowed 10 runs, seven earned, in three innings.
- The suspension could cost Detroit one or two starts from Valdez at a time when Tarik Skubal just had elbow surgery and several starters are on the injured list.
- NESN broadcasters condemned the play as “weak,” and coverage resurfaced a 2025 incident when Valdez hit his own catcher, shaping how fans and the league viewed this episode.