Johnny Estrada suspension, fine reduced
Braves catcher Johnny Estrada had his suspension for arguing with umpire Doug Eddings shortened from 3 games to 2 games and his $5,000 fine reduced to $3,500. Estrada started serving the suspension with Wednesday night’s game. The timing was fortuitous as it was already doubtful that he would play during the rest of the Nationals series due to a recurrence of the back strain he suffered as a result of his collision with Darin Erstad of the Los Angeles Angels. Brayan Pena has been called up to serve as backup to Brian McCann who will be the Braves’ primary catcher while Estrada is unavailable. Pena will likely be sent back to Richmond to make room for a replacement for injured starting pitcher Mike Hampton once Estrada has served his suspension.
