Cubs reliever Ryan Tepera gets three-game suspension for pitching behind Brewers’ Brandon Woodruff

Chicago reliever Ryan Tepera was suspended for three games for hitting Milwaukee Brewers pitcher Brandon Woodruff in last Tuesday’s Cubs victory, according to Major League Baseball.

It was established that Tepera, 33, intended to hit Woodruff when he threw behind his back and at his feet in the fifth inning of that game. By rule, manager David Ross also received a one-game suspension, which he will serve on Friday.

Tepera will appeal the case, which will be held in abeyance until the player’s trial is completed.

The major leagues have also punished associate pitching, catching and strategy coach Mike Borzello with a one-game suspension, according to a source.

Tempers have been flaring between the Cubs and Brewers. Chicago catcher Wilson Contreras has been hit three times in April by Milwaukee, including once in the head. Contreras was fined $7,500 for inciting dugouts to empty out in a series at Wrigley Field.

Last Tuesday, Contreras was hit again, prompting Tepera to nearly throw the ball to Woodruff an inning later. Contreras connected on the two-run home run that put the Cubs ahead on Brent Suter’s pitch after suffering the ball to help Chicago win 3-2.

Bench coach Andy Greene will lead the Cubs on Friday when they open a series against the Atlanta Braves. The Cubs and Brewers will play their third series of the season later in April.