Cole Hamels admits to intentionally hitting bryce harper

Cole Hamels got a five game suspension for the way he welcomed Bryce Harper to the big leagues.The 2008 World Series MVP was suspended for intentionally throwing at the Washington rookie in the Philadelphia Phillies 9-3 win over the Nationals on Sunday night.Major League Baseball announced the penalty Monday, Hamels also was fined.Hamels wasnt available to reporters before the Phillies opened a three game series against the New York Mets. But he already admitted that he deliberately threw at Harper.

I was trying to hit him the twot ime All Star lefty said Sunday . Im not going to deny it. Im not trying to injure the guy. Theyre probably not going to like me for it but Im not going to say I wasnt trying to do it. I think they understood the message and they threw it right back. Thats the way and I respect it.Hamels began serving his suspension Monday night.  Cliff Lee is expected to come off the disabled list and start Wednesday coupled with Thursdays day off Hamels really wont miss a turn in the rotation.Roy Halladay will likely pitch on regular rest Saturday and Hamels would then start Sunday against the San Diego Padres.