The Royals announced Saturday that starting pitcher Yordano Ventura will begin serving an eight-game suspension for his role in a brawl with the Baltimore Orioles on June 7 at Camden Yards.
Ventura’s suspension, which was originally nine games, was reduced by one game. He will be eligible to return on June 28 against the St. Louis Cardinals, barring any rainouts. The Royals, who have two days off next week, should be able to use a four-man rotation while Ventura serves his suspension.
Ventura was suspended after hitting Orioles shortstop Manny Machado, sparking a fight in Baltimore. Machado was suspended four games for his role in the brawl.