A's Willingham draws suspension, fine

NEW YORK, May 9 (UPI) -- Major League Baseball Monday suspended Oakland Athletics outfielder Josh Willingham for one game for an incident during Saturday's 4-3 loss to Kansas City.

Willingham was ejected from the game after arguing vehemently with home plate umpire Bill Miller over a called third strike in the eighth inning.

Willingham threw down his batting helmet made contact with the umpire during the tirade, which earned him the suspension and a fine for "inappropriate conduct," MLB.com reported.

The A's said the 32-year-old clean-up hitter is appealing the suspension, during which the disciplinary actions will be put on hold.

Willingham has posted a .225 average with five home runs and 17 RBI this season.