Detroit Tigers’ reliever Al Alburquerque kisses ball, sparks controversy – MLB Update
Why Detroit Tigers’ reliever Al Alburquerque kissed the ball on Sunday evening remains a mystery but what is clear is that the A’s were extremely intimidate by his actions on the field.
According to sources, when Alburquerque fielded on Oakland’s slugger Yoenis Cespedes hit in Game 2 of the five match American League Divisional Series, he kissed the ball before throwing it back to the first base. A’s were not amused by the fact he kissed
the ball before throwing it back.
Similar incidents have taken place in Major League Baseball in the past as well but it must be said the Alburquerque’s smooch has become MLB’s highest profile since Morganna, the Kissing Bandit announced her presence between 1970 and 1990.
Alburquerque says that he was excited about Tigers’ victory and that is why he kissed the ball before throwing it back to Prince Fielder on first base but it did not sit well with A’s who are now down 0-2 in the series.
"He must not believe in baseball gods. Baseball gods take care of that stuff,” Jonny Gomes said.
"It did get under my skin,” he said, according to CSNBayArea.com. “It was very unprofessional. I didn't appreciate that one bit."
“You cannot do that, that’s just not right,” Tigers’ MVP candidate Miguel told USA Today. “This game is about respect. We know he’s excited, but you have to respect the game.”
It may not be possible for the A’s to win three straight games against the inspired Tigers but they certainly show more composure under pressure. In an interview with a leading sports website, outfielder Cespedes said that he is not too worried about the
incident. He further added that the A’s are not finished yet.
Cespedes said when he will get back to Oakland, he will smack a home-run against him and kiss his bat.
“It's OK, It's not a problem for me. We’re not finished yet. When I get back to Oakland, I am going to hit the ball hard against him. And I am going to kiss my bat.”
It will be interesting to see how Oakland fights back and try to get a victory in this crucial series. Their entire season is riding on it and the team will be hoping for a good performance on the field.
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