In MLB betting news, Major League Baseball has dropped its five-game suspension of Mariners pitcher Cliff Lee, following his appeal.

Lee was disciplined by the league after being ejected from a March 15 grapefruit league game in Tucson against the Diamondbacks in which a pitch nearly hit Chris Snyder of the D-Backs.

The Mariners stated that MLB vice president of administration John McHale made the ruling following last Wednesday's appeal hearing. McHale noted that difficulties in recovering from foot surgery and a serious muscle strain were sufficient evidence to withdraw the suspension and fine.

Fans of sports betting know that the about-face opens the door for Lee to pitch as soon as he's able to come off the disabled list from his current issue with an abdominal strain. This week, Mariners manager Don Wakamatsu said that Lee will pitch on May 2 against Texas if all goes well in an upcoming simulated game and then one rehab start in Tacoma.

Lee was placed on the 15-day disabled list on April 4, retroactive to March 26, with an abdominal muscle strain. The 2008 AL Cy Young Award winner is scheduled to throw a simulated game on Tuesday afternoon.

In other league happenings, the fashion police have arrested Joe Maddon. Well, okay, they haven't arrested the manager of the Tampa Bay Rays, but they have informed him he can no longer wear his famous hoodie. Maddon likes to put on the pullover during cold days at the ballpark, but MLB said it's not approved for use during games. Despite Maddon's love for the sweater, he insists he will abide by league rules. Thank goodness the league is on top of these things.