SEATTLE (AP) - Richie Sexson charged the mound and flung his helmet at Rangers pitcher Kason Gabbard after the left-hander threw a pitch eye-high to the Seattle Mariners first baseman in the fourth inning of Thursday night's game.

Both benches cleared, but no punches were thrown. Sexson was ejected.

The pitch was up, but not far inside to the 6-foot-8 Sexson. He immediately came running out toward the 6-foot-3 Gabbard, who tossed his glove aside and ducked down to avoid Sexson's helmet and tackle the slugger by the legs.

Tensions began to build in the fourth when Mariners pitcher Felix Hernandez hit Ian Kinsler, who had homered in the second, in the back with a fastball. Kinsler turned toward Hernandez, who put his arms out then stared at Kinsler as the second baseman walked to first.

The most animated player during the melee was Hernandez, who had two be restrained by three players, including former Mariners closer Eddie Guardado, now with Texas.

Gabbard was not ejected, but was removed two batters later with what appeared to be a leg injury. The Rangers were leading 4-0. He had just come of the disabled list with a stiff back.