Rangers, Mariners brawl after high pitch

SEATTLE -- Ian Kinsler hit a two-run home run and then was hit by a pitch, setting up a fourth-inning brawl in the Texas Rangers’ 5-0 victory over the Seattle Mariners on Thursday night.

Richie Sexson charged the mound and flung his helmet at Rangers starter Kason Gabbard after the left-hander threw a pitch eye-high to him in the bottom half of the fourth.

Both benches cleared, but no punches were thrown. Sexson was ejected.

The pitch was up, but not far inside to the 6-foot-8 Sexson. He immediately came running out toward the 6-3 Gabbard, who tossed his glove aside and ducked to avoid Sexson’s helmet and tackle the slugger by the legs.

Tensions began to build in the fourth when Felix Hernandez hit Kinsler in the back with a fastball. Kinsler turned toward Hernandez, who put his arms out, then stared at Kinsler as the second baseman walked to first.

The most animated player during the melee was Hernandez, who had to be restrained by three players, including former Mariners closer Eddie Guardado, now with Texas.