In the bottom of the eighth, Hunter did not agree with the questionable strike three call by home plate umpire Mark Ripperger on a pitch that appeared to be a bit outside. Hunter got in Ripperger's face and was given a little leeway to vent, but Ripperger eventually had enough and tossed Hunter. Twins manager Paul Molitor came out to defend Hunter, but he was tossed in a matter of seconds.
That's when the fireworks started. After being restrained by Molitor and umpire crew chief Brian O'Nora, Hunter took off his elbow pads, shin guards, batting gloves and jersey and tossed them all over the field before heading off to the dugout. Hunter's temper tantrum earned a round of applause from Twins fans.
The Royals beat the Twins 7-2 to complete a three-game sweep. The Twins are still in second place in the AL Central, but have lost 5 of their last 6 games.
UPDATE: MLB has suspended Hunter two games for his antics.
Video via MLB. H/T BLS.
Moonlighting as a blogger to pursue my interest and enjoyment of sports. Former high school and Division I athlete (now a "retired" family man) that loves watching and discussing all sports. Follow me on Twitter (@HoldoutSports) and like Holdout Sports on Facebook.
