Texas Rangers pitcher Kenny Rogers was suspended for 20 games and fined $50,000 by Major League Baseball on Friday for an outburst that sent a television cameraman to the hospital and prompted a police investigation.
The players' union filed an appeal on behalf of Rogers.
"Mr. Rogers' behavior was unprofessional, unwarranted and completely unacceptable," commissioner Bud Selig said in a statement. "Major League Baseball is a social institution and all of us in the game have an important responsibility to act with reason and good judgment."
The suspension applies only to regular-season games, and Rogers would be eligible for the All-Star Game if selected.
Rogers shoved two cameramen before Wednesday's game against the Los Angeles Angels in a tirade that included throwing a camera to the ground, kicking it and threatening to break more. The incident was captured on videotape and led to KDFW cameraman Larry Rodriguez being treated at a hospital.
"While I recognize the relationship between players and members of the media may sometimes be difficult, there is no circumstance in which a player may settle a difference of opinion or a dispute through physical means," Selig said. "Media coverage is important to the game and we in baseball are obligated to treat members of the media with respect and civility."
Rogers Suspened 20 Games And Fined $50,000