MLB Suspends Padres Pitcher Ron Marinaccio and Manager Craig Stammen After Intentional Hit by Pitch
Major League Baseball has suspended San Diego Padres relief pitcher Ron Marinaccio for three games and issued an undisclosed fine following an intentional pitch thrown at Baltimore Orioles shortstop Gunnar Henderson. The incident occurred during the bottom of the ninth inning at Oriole Park at Camden Yards on Saturday, June 13. Additionally, Padres manager Craig Stammen received a one-game suspension and a fine for his role in the event.
Did You Know? Ron Marinaccio, a Toms River, New Jersey native, was originally selected by the New York Yankees in the 19th round of the 2017 MLB Draft before joining the Padres in 2025 via a trade with the Chicago White Sox.
How the appeal affects the Padres’ roster
Because Ron Marinaccio has chosen to appeal the three-game suspension, the penalty is currently stayed under MLB regulations. According to league policy, a player remains eligible to participate in games until a formal hearing is held and a final verdict is reached by the commissioner or an independent arbitrator. This delay allows the 30-year-old reliever to remain available for the Padres’ upcoming series against the St. Louis Cardinals at Busch Stadium.
The ability to keep Marinaccio active provides immediate relief for a pitching staff that has struggled with high workloads due to inconsistent starting rotations. By avoiding an immediate absence, the team can delay potential roster adjustments and prevent the premature exhaustion of other key bullpen arms.
Why MLB issued simultaneous suspensions
The disciplinary actions against both Marinaccio and manager Craig Stammen reflect a broader effort by the league to curb retaliatory behavior. Michael Hill, Senior Vice President of On-Field Operations for the commissioner’s office, oversaw the enforcement of these penalties. By sanctioning the manager alongside the pitcher, the league aims to discourage the use of internal, unwritten rules that lead to physical confrontations on the field.
Expert Insight: The decision to penalize both the player and the skipper indicates a move toward strict accountability. By holding the manager responsible, the league is attempting to eliminate the “retaliation culture” often seen when teams use high-velocity pitches as a tactical tool to manage opposing hitters.
What happens next for San Diego
While Marinaccio’s status remains in flux pending his appeal, manager Craig Stammen is required to serve his one-game suspension immediately. Stammen will be absent from the dugout for the series opener against the Cardinals. The team must now operate under interim coaching leadership for that contest, with a primary focus on maintaining emotional discipline to avoid further disciplinary friction during their current road trip.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why was Ron Marinaccio suspended?
He was suspended for three games for intentionally hitting Baltimore Orioles shortstop Gunnar Henderson with a pitch during the ninth inning on June 13.
Will Craig Stammen be available for the next game?
No. Unlike the pitcher, who is appealing his sentence, the manager must serve his one-game suspension immediately during the series opener in St. Louis.
What is the current status of the pitcher’s suspension?
The suspension is currently in suspense because Marinaccio has filed an appeal, allowing him to remain on the active roster until the appeal process concludes.
How do you think the increased oversight on “inside pitches” is changing the way modern games are managed?