Lohse is suspended five games for brushback pitch

Last update: August 20, 2008 - 10:02 PM

ST. LOUIS - Cardinals pitcher Kyle Lohse was suspended five games Wednesday for throwing a fastball past the head of Cincinnati pitcher Edinson Volquez last weekend.

The former Twin appealed the penalty and can continue to play until a hearing is held. Asked about the suspension, he called the ruling "pretty weak."

St. Louis manager Tony La Russa was surprised by the suspension. "The other guy threw two balls at guys' heads," La Russa said. "I don't know, I'm just shocked."

Lohse also was fined an undisclosed amount.

Volquez threw up and in to Lohse in the fifth inning. Then Lohse threw high and tight to Volquez in the bottom of the fifth, leading plate umpire Greg Gibson to warn both teams.

"Same spot," Lohse said. "Wasn't trying to hit him, though."

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