Controversy!MLB

Oakland A’s Upset By Tigers Pitcher’s Innocent Kiss

The Detroit Tigers defeated the Oakland A’s today to take a 2-0 lead in the American League Division Series, but not without a little bit of controversy. At least from the A’s point of view, anyway.

Apparently, some members of the A’s are upset by the actions of Tigers relief pitcher Al Alburquerque when fielding an inning-ending ground ball in the 9th inning of today’s game. After handling the ball, Alburquerque gave the ball a little kiss before tossing it to first baseman Prince Fielder for the out.

Some A’s apparently viewed Alburquerque’s actions as disrespectful. Take a look for yourself, via World of Isaac/Guyism.

Seems harmless enough, no? Not to the A’s.

“It did get under my skin,” outfielder Josh Reddick said, according to Casey Pratt. “We didn’t appreciate that. I thought it was immature and not very professional. You don’t do that on the field. Save it for the dugout.”

“He must not believe in baseball gods. Baseball gods take care of that stuff,” said A’s DH Jonny Gomes, per Bob Nightengale.

Let’s hope for Gomes’ sake that there are no such things as “baseball gods.” Because if there are, those gods are apparently rooting for the Tigers, who loaded the bases in the bottom of the 9th with just one out and ultimately won 5-4 on a Don Kelly RBI sac fly, officially giving Alburquerque the win.

[Larry Brown Sports]

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