Robles apologizes for flinging bat at Triple-A pitcher over near-miss hit-by-pitch

Former Nationals outfielder Victor Robles flung his bat at a pitcher Sunday night after dodging an inside fastball during his rehab assignment with Triple-A Tacoma. An apology followed on social media early Monday.

“I let my frustration get the best of me, and I understand how that may have affected not just the game, but the energy and respect we all work so hard to maintain,” said Robles, the former Washington National who signed with the Seattle Mariners last year.

During Sunday’s game in Las Vegas against the Aviators, Robles defensively swung at a fastball that nearly grazed his shoulder. Upset with the placement, he tossed his bat and started charging toward pitcher Joey Estes before the home-plate umpire ejected him.

Context was important, Robles said. He had already been hit by five pitches in 15 plate appearances. Las Vegas’ pitchers had already plunked him three times in the series.

“Coming off a long rehab and being away from the game for most of the season has been physically and mentally challenging,” he wrote in the Instagram post. “Adding to that, the recent passing of my mother has been incredibly hard, and I’ve been doing my best to hold it together.”

Robles has missed most of the season with a left shoulder injury. His Major League return will likely be delayed as MLB officials are expected to levy a suspension for the thrown bat.

“I’m committed to being better, not just as a player, but as a teammate and competitor,” Robles wrote. “I appreciate your understanding, and I’m grateful to be back on the field doing what I love.”