Behind scenes with NY Mets and Mariners at MLB Little League Classic
The Little League Classic was a day chock full of events for the Mets and Mariners on Aug. 17, 2025, in Williamsport, Pennsylvania.
The Seattle Mariners thought they were getting a boost for a playoff run with the impending return of outfielder Victor Robles to the lineup.
But an incident during his rehab assignment is going to instead hurt his team.
MLB suspended Robles on Aug. 19 for 10 games after Robles threw a bat at a minor league pitcher on Aug. 17 after getting hit while playing with Seattle’s Triple-A affiliate, the Tacoma Rainiers.
Robles was quickly ejected from the game against the Las Vegas Aviators, but ran toward the pitcher, Joey Estes, after throwing his bat at him.
Robles was held back by teammates, but he wasn’t done. He also threw packs of sunflower seeds onto the field.
Video shows Victor Robles throwing bat at pitcher
You can see the incident in several videos on social media.
Robles was placed on the injured list after dislocating his shoulder diving into the stands to make a catch on April 6, but was expected back with the Mariners soon.
Impact of Victor Robles’ suspension on Mariners
According to Seattle Times reporter Ryan Divish, Robles will have to serve his suspension at the major league level, and the Mariners will be forced to play a man down for 10 games as he does it.
That is certainly not ideal as Seattle battles for a playoff spot over the final six weeks of the season.
The Mariners were 1 1/2 games behind the Houston Astros in the American League West entering Aug. 19 games.
They were three games ahead of the Cleveland Guardians for the final AL wild-card berth in the MLB playoffs.
Robles is expected to appeal the suspension, Divish reported.
Victor Robles apologizes on social media for actions
Robles took to social media to apologize for his actions after the incident in an attempt to provide some context, but not excuse his actions.
He wrote on an Instagram story: “I want to take a moment to sincerely apologize for my recent reaction on the field. I let my frustration get the best of me, and I understand how that may have affected not just the game, but the energy and respect we all work so hard to maintain.
“Coming off a long rehab and being away from the game for most of the season has been physically and mentally challenging. Adding to that, the recent passing of my mother has been incredibly hard, and I’ve been doing my best to hold it together. That’s not an excuse, but some context I feel you deserve to understand where I’m coming from.
“Getting hit 5 times in 15 at-bats added to that pressure, and I reacted in a way I’m not proud of. This game means the world to me, and so do the people who play it. I respect every one of you – my teammates, the opposing players, and everyone in this league.
“I’m committed to being better, not just as a player, but as a teammate and competitor. I appreciate your understanding, and I’m grateful to be back on the field doing what I love.
“Thank you.”
Reach Jeremy Cluff at jeremy.cluff@arizonarepublic.com. Follow him on X, formerly Twitter @Jeremy_Cluff.
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