Miles’ Mikolas five-game suspension has been upheld by MLB, but in the end, the two suspensions from the Nationals-Red Sox fracas will end up costing the team exactly zero starts.
Mikolas, who was given five games for his role in the dust-up that started between Cade Cavalli and Willson Contreras in Boston last week, appealed his suspension, and was able to pitch all the way through his outing in Saturday’s 4-2 loss to the Yankees.
MLB upheld the ban Saturday night, and he will begin serving his suspension in Sunday’s first-half finale against the Yankees. Because of the All-Star break, however, Mikolas can return on July 21 in the Nats’ fifth game after the break, so he can slot right in without truly missing an outing.
The Nats ostensibly did not miss a start from Cavalli, either, as he appealed his seven-game suspension, saw it reduced to five after his outing last Sunday, and served his suspension Monday-Saturday – in time to return for the first-half finale.
Because of Thursday’s off-day, the Nats were able to use Mikolas, Andrew Alvarez, and Foster Griffin in order against the Astros Monday-Wednesday and Zack Littell on Friday, with Mikolas slotting in on regular rest Saturday ahead of Cavalli’s return.
Mikolas will be eligible to return July 21, Nats' fifth game after break
Mikolas will be eligible to return July 21, Nats' fifth game after break
