Phils' Neris banned 3 games for hitting Freese

PHILADELPHIA --Phillies closer Hector Neris was suspended three games and fined an undisclosed amount for intentionally throwing a pitch in the area of the head ofLos Angeles Dodgersfirst basemanDavid Freese.

Joe Torre, chief baseball officer for Major League Baseball, announced the suspension and fine Wednesday, a day after the incident in the ninth inning of the Phillies' 9-8 home victory.

Neris had just given up a three-run homer to Dodgers rookie Matt Beaty. On the next pitch, Neris hit Freese in the back with a 95 mph fastball.

Neris, who said hitting Freese was not intentional, was ejected. Phillies manager Gabe Kapler went out to argue Neris' case and got tossed as well.

Neris has appealed his suspension. He was available to pitch Wednesday night, but did not get into the game as the Phillies lost 7-2.

He has converted 17 of 21 save opportunities.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.