Washington Nationals RHP A.J. Cole suspended five games

Washington Nationals right-hander A.J. Cole received a five-game suspension and an undisclosed fine for intentionally throwing a pitch near the head of Jung Ho Kang of the Pittsburgh Pirates during Sunday's game at PNC Park in Pittsburgh.

Cole's suspension was scheduled to begin Tuesday, when the Nationals play the Arizona Diamondbacks. However, Cole has decided to file an appeal, so he will be allowed to play until the appeal is heard.

Cole's pitch to Kang came a half-inning after Kang put down a fake tag at third base on Bryce Harper's triple. It forced Harper into an awkward slide, and Harper injured his right thumb on the play.

Cole then threw a pitch behind Kang's back and was immediately ejected by home plate ump Jordan Baker.