MLB suspends New York Yankees Josh Donaldson for one game for comments to Chicago White Sox's Tim Anderson

Major League Baseball has suspended New York Yankees third baseman Josh Donaldson for one game for «inappropriate comments» made to Chicago White Sox shortstop Tim Anderson on Saturday.

Donaldson, who also was fined an undisclosed amount, is appealing the punishment, MLB announced. He will be eligible to play for the Yankees until the appeal process is completed. Shortly before the suspension was announced, the Yankees said Donaldson had been put on the COVID-19 injured list.

«MLB has completed the process of speaking to the individuals involved in this incident. There is no dispute over what was said on the field. Regardless of Mr. Donaldson's intent, the comment he directed toward Mr. Anderson was disrespectful and in poor judgment, particularly when viewed in the context of their prior interactions. In addition, Mr. Donaldson's remark was a contributing factor in a bench-clearing incident between the teams, and warrants discipline,» Michael Hill, MLB's senior vice president for on-field operations said in a statement.

White Sox pitching coach Ethan Katz didn't think the penalty was enough.

«Just one game. We all saw his malice at third a week ago, then this comment with the ridiculous excuse that followed. What's the point or message behind a 1 game suspension? This is incredibly disappointing and plain frustrating,'' Katz tweeted.

Donaldson admitted after Saturday's game to calling Anderson „Jackie“ — a nod to Jackie Robinson, who broke MLB's color barrier in 1947 — in the first inning. The Yankees third baseman apologized, saying he meant no disrespect.

But Anderson, who is Black, said Saturday that he was offended by Donaldson's comment, calling it „disrespectful“ and „unnecessary.“ White Sox manager Tony La Russa