Sandoval Benched By Boston After Using Instagram During Game [PHOTO]
ATLANTA (AP) — Boston third baseman Pablo Sandoval has been benched by manager John Farrell for a game against Atlanta after using his Instagram account during a loss to the Braves.
Sandoval said Thursday he had returned to the clubhouse to use the bathroom during the previous night's 5-2 defeat and checked his phone. He says "first time" and "I take the mistake, I learn from it. I broke the team rules."
A two-time All-Star who left World Series champion San Francisco to sign a $95 million, five-year deal with Boston, Sandoval said he apologized to Farrell and general manager Ben Cherington, who is with the team.
"It's the wrong thing," Sandoval said. "My team is down. Ain't going to happen no more."
Sandoval was replaced int he starting lineup by rookie Travis Shaw.
Boston is last in the AL East at 28-39 and has lost eight of its last nine game. Sandoval is hitting .452 during an eight-game hitting streak.
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