ST. LOUIS (AP) -Cardinals rookie Brendan Ryan was benched by manager Tony La Russa after flying out in the first inning, apparently for swinging at a 3-0 pitch.
After Ryan flied out to center field, La Russa walked to the opposite end of the dugout, returned and then mouthed the words “You’re done!” as Ryan was putting away his bat and gloves.
La Russa said after the game that Ryan had told him he thought the count was 2-1.
“It’s the big leagues,” La Russa said. “I sent a message right away, that’s not how we play. Not acceptable.”
Before the game, La Russa told reporters that Ryan has a “lot to prove” before being assured of a roster spot next season.
The 25-year-old Ryan was batting .308 with four homers and 11 RBIs in 159 at-bats. He has made 16 starts at shortstop and 14 each at second base and third base.
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