Reds outfielder Tommy Pham slapped Giants outfielder Joc Pederson in an altercation before Friday's game at Great American Ball Park, according to multiple sources.
Pham was scratched just before the rain-delayed game started at 8:48 p.m., more than two hours after the scheduled start time. According to the Reds, MLB is investigating the incident and Pham agreed not to play pending the results of the investigation.
Sources say the Giants asked for Pham to be removed from the lineup prior to the game, but the Reds resisted until close to game time. Albert Almora Jr. was inserted into the game as the team's left fielder.
The confrontation happened during the Reds' batting practice and took place in left field, where Giants pitchers were warming up. Players ran in from both the dugout and the bullpens to break up the action.
During his pregame session with the media, Giants manager Gabe Kapler said he didn't have enough information to discuss the incident at that time.
"We're investigating and learning as much as we can about the incident," Kapler said. "I don't have much more for you than that right now. I sense that we'll have a clearer understanding after the game."
When asked if it was Pham and Pederson that had the issue, Kapler again deferred his comments until later.
"Again, still looking into it," Kapler said. "Taking it very seriously and learning as much as I and we can as quickly as we can. Not yet prepared to discuss it."
According to multiple sources, the beef stems from a disagreement the two had in a group text for a fantasy football league that includes players from several teams.
Both Pham and Pederson are in their first seasons with their current teams. Pham has played for the Cardinals, Rays and Padres. Pederson has played for the Dodgers, Cubs and Braves.
(Photo: Kirk Irwin/Getty Images)
Reds' Tommy Pham slaps Giants' Joc Pederson pregame altercation: Sources - The Athletic
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