Nyjer Morgan's suspension reduced

WASHINGTON, Sept. 16 (UPI) -- National League officials have reduced the suspension handed to Washington center fielder Nyjer Morgan to eight games.

Morgan was suspended for a total of 15 games for a pair of incidents but Thursday the disciplinary action was cut to eight games. Morgan will begin serving the suspension effective Friday's game.

Morgan, who said he was fined $15,000, told The Washington Post he was "glad they (league officials) were able to still hear my side" during the appeal process.

Morgan was originally suspended seven games for allegedly throwing a ball at and using inappropriate language toward a fan and was ordered to miss another eight games for a series of issues, including his part in an on-field fight involving the Florida Marlins.

Morgan is hitting .258 this season as has been used mostly as the Nationals' leadoff hitter.