Watch CBS News

A's Willingham Appeals Suspension Over Umpire Argument

OAKLAND (CBS Sports / AP) ― Oakland Athletics outfielder Josh Willingham has appealed a one-game suspension for making contact with an umpire during a weekend dispute.

The penalty was supposed to have been served during Monday night's game at Texas, but Willingham appealed - and it was a good thing for the A's that he did.

Willingham was Oakland's biggest offensive contributor, collecting half of the A's four hits, a three-run homer and two-run single. The five runs driven in by Willingham were the difference in Oakland's 7-2 win over Texas.

Willingham can keep playing until the appeal process is complete.

Major League Baseball has also fined Willingham an undisclosed amount.

Willingham was ejected by umpire Bill Miller for arguing a called third strike in Saturday night's game at Kansas City. Willingham made contact with Miller during the eighth-inning disagreement.

"I thought the contact wasn't really initiated by me," said Willingham.

(© 2011 CBS Interactive & The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.)

View CBS News In
CBS News App Open
Chrome Safari Continue
Be the first to know
Get browser notifications for breaking news, live events, and exclusive reporting.