Indians P Clevinger to quarantine after protocol violation
The Cleveland Indians announced Monday they will discipline a second pitcher for violating coronavirus protocols, putting right-hander Mike Clevinger on a 72-hour quarantine.
The move comes one day after right-hander Zach Plesac was sent back to Cleveland from Chicago via car after a coronavirus protocol violation.
ESPN reported Monday that Clevinger and Plesac left the team hotel together on Saturday night while the team was in Chicago for a series against the White Sox.
Plesac issued a statement Sunday after he was disciplined: "I would like to apologize to my teammates, the entire Cleveland organization and all of our fans for my actions Saturday evening. I realize I made a poor choice to leave the hotel, which broke protocols and could have endangered other people. I understand that in these times of uncertainty, I need to be more vigilant and responsible and I am determined to earn my teammates' forgiveness and get back to work."
After an off day Monday, Clevinger was supposed to pitch at home against the Chicago Cubs on Tuesday. He will be replaced on the mound by right-hander Adam Plutko.
"Today the organization learned that RHP Mike Clevinger violated team protocols on the club's recent road trip to Chicago," the Indians said in a statement. "He has been instructed to quarantine and will undergo subsequent testing while away from the team. ... The Cleveland Indians will continue to keep the health and safety of our players, coaches and staff members as our top priority."
The Indians earned an extra-inning victory over the Chicago White Sox on Sunday night and Clevinger flew home with the team afterward, ESPN reported.
In addition to his quarantine, Clevinger must have multiple negative COVID-19 tests before he can return.
Clevinger is 1-1 this season in three starts with a 3.24 ERA. He was 13-4 for the Indians last season with a career-best 2.71 ERA in 21 starts. He is 42-22 with a 3.20 ERA over a five-year career, all with the Indians.
--Field Level Media
