Girard Gets 3-Game Suspension
<Annapolis:team#12> right fielder <Gianni Girard:player#1206> was suspended 3 games today by the League's Vice President in charge of discipline. In an official statement he noted, "During his confrontation with the home plate umpire in today's game, Girard did not display the qualities of sportsmanship and good conduct expected of our players."

Press reports commented on Girard's profanity-laced tirade that was audible to the many parents and children seated near home plate.

A contrite Girard accepted responsibility for his behavior in yesterday's Destroyers-<Brooklyn:team#19> game. Following a called third strike, Girard started a heated confrontation with the plate umpire. "I tapped his chest protector -- I wasn't trying to hit the guy or anything -- I was just wrapped up in the game and wanted to help my team win," <Girard:player#1206> said after the game. "I'm getting suspended and I deserve it -- I know you can't touch the ump," he continued, and sure enough, Girard received a 3-game suspension today from the Commissioner's Office.

Girard is batting .275 this season in 41 games with 5 home runs, 25 RBIs and 31 runs scored. He has 39 hits in 142 at-bats.