Mets' reliever Hansel Robles suspended three games for throwing at Phillies' Cameron Rupp

The Mets' relief core might be a little less crowded for the final series of the season against the Washington Nationals, as Hansel Robles has been fined and suspended for three games for "intentionally" throwing at Cameron Rupp.

The incident occurred in the sixth inning of Wednesday night's game, leading to Robles's ejection from the game and the benches clearing. Earlier in the game, Yoenis Cespedes and Kirk Nieuwenhuis had both been hit by pitches, in the third and fifth innings, respectively. Mets' pitcher Logan Verrett had also hit Phillies' outfielder Odubel Herrera a half-inning after Nieuwenhuis's plunking.

The timing of the incident and suspension creates an interesting scenario for Robles.

Robles can serve suspension last 3 games of reg season. if appeals DOES NOT carry into postseason, carries to next regular season #Mets

— Joel Sherman (@Joelsherman1) October 1, 2015

In short, if Robles were to unsuccessfully appeal the suspension, the three games would carry over into the beginning of next season. Whether the Mets prefer to have him this weekend against he Nats—during which they'll try to secure home-field advantage in the NLDS against the Dodgers—is unclear.

Robles has become an increasingly effective weapon out of the Mets' bullpen of late and figures to be in the Mets' postseason plans.