Boston’s Ryan Dempster suspended five games for hitting A-Rod

Boston right-hander Ryan Dempster on Tuesday was suspended for five games and fined $2,500 by Major League Baseball for intentionally hitting the Yankees’ Alex Rodriguez with a pitch Sunday. New York Manager Joe Girardi was fined $5,000 for arguing with an umpire during the same game.

Dempster could still play if he appeals the penalty. But the Red Sox have off days Thursday and Monday, which would allow him to serve the suspension while getting pushed back only a couple days in the rotation.

Etc.

Toronto slugger Jose Bautista was placed on the 15-day disabled list because of a bruised left hip bone suffered in the first game of Tuesday’s doubleheader against the Yankees. . . . Cleveland released right-hander Daisuke Matsuzaka at his request, giving him chance to catch on with another team after failing to secure a spot in the Indians’ rotation. . . . Cincinnati left-hander Tony Cingrani left Tuesday’s start against Arizona after straining his lower back in the fourth inning. . . . Texas put right-hander Alexi Ogando (shoulder strain) on the disabled list for the third time this season. . . . Houston catcher Carlos Corporan was placed on the seven-day concussion disabled list.