La Russa Angered by Umpire’s Actions

St. Louis Manager Tony La Russa says umpire Jerry Crawford has “made it a point to get us” and could cost the Cardinals games this season.

La Russa spoke after pitching coach Dave Duncan and catcher Mike Matheny were ejected in the third inning against the Houston Astros on Saturday night -- a 2-0 loss in a crucial series. Crawford declined to comment before Sunday’s game.

Crawford was the home-plate umpire Saturday night, and he ejected both Cardinals.

“We’ve had problems with that umpire for how many years now?” La Russa said. “We had one incident at home where he disrespected our coaches. He’s made it a point to get us. It’s tough enough to win in this league.

“Who knows if we would have won, but when you keep getting kicked in the guts like this guy did.... He’s going to get us worse the next time.”

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Home plate umpire Steve Rippley left the Cincinnati Red-Chicago Cub game before the ninth inning Sunday because of a headache.

Rippley was hit in the chin by a foul ball off the bat of Cincinnati’s Ray Olmedo in the sixth inning.

Rippley had a concussion last year, and he was checked by Michael Schafer, the Cub team doctor, and John Marquardt, the team’s former doctor.

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Florida Marlin right-hander Brad Penny underwent an MRI exam that revealed no damage to his hyperextended pitching elbow, and he may be able to rejoin the rotation this week at Atlanta.