Minnesota pitcher suspended

NEW YORK, Aug. 24 (UPI) -- Major League Baseball announced Friday Minnesota pitcher Scott Diamond had been suspended six games for throwing at Texas outfielder Josh Hamilton.

The incident took place Thursday when Diamond's first offering to Hamilton in the fourth inning sailed over the Texas slugger's head. Home plate umpire Wally Bell kicked Diamond out of the game immediately and he also tossed Ron Gardenhire after the Minnesota manager came out of the dugout to argue.

Texas starter Roy Oswalt had hit Minnesota catcher Joe Mauer in the back with a 3-0 pitch in the third inning.

Diamond said he would appeal the suspension. He was also fined an undisclosed amount.

Diamond has a 10-5 record with a 3.04 earned run average in 20 starts this year.