FSU's DJ Stewart suspended 4 games after benches-clearing brawl with UF
TALLAHASSEE, Fla. -- Florida State will be without its leading hitter, DJ Stewart, after the outfielder was suspended four games as part of a benches-clearing fight with Florida on Tuesday night in Jacksonville.
Stewart came charging down the first-base line as he ran out a slow grounder in the eighth inning that was fielded by Florida pitcher Danny Young. He and Stewart collided and Young was not able to field the ball.
Florida's Zach Powers then ran over to Stewart after he reached first base and yelled at him. Stewart shoved Powers and both benches emptied. Stewart, Young and Powers were ejected.
Heisman Trophy winner Jameis Winston, a closer for the Seminoles, was in the middle of the fracas, which lasted about 90 seconds. Florida defeated No. 1 Florida State 4-1.
By rule, the NCAA Division I Rules Committee stated that the incident constituted a fight, and Stewart will miss this weekend's series against Boston College along with Tuesday's home game against Florida Gulf Coast.
"I plan to meet with the appropriate national organizations who have oversight of baseball playing rules and address this issue as I feel the punishment does not fit the crime," Florida State coach Mike Martin said.
A sophomore, Stewart leads the team in hitting (.380), runs (26), doubles (26) and home runs (four).
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