NEW YORK — Major League Baseball has initiated a formal inquiry into an alleged 'snub' during the recent World Baseball Classic, citing concerns that the incident could set a dangerous precedent for inter-team relations. The investigation follows reports that Tampa Bay Rays star Randy Arozarena was left unacknowledged by Seattle Mariners catcher Cal Raleigh, prompting a 'vulgar' verbal exchange.

Commissioner Rob Manfred confirmed the league's commitment to ensuring 'all players feel adequately acknowledged in moments of shared triumph or mild disappointment.' He added, 'While we understand the heat of competition, the sanctity of the post-game high-five, fist bump, or even the simple nod, must be preserved. We cannot allow a breakdown in these fundamental social contracts to fester.'

Sources close to the league's newly formed 'Interpersonal Sportsmanship & Handshake Integrity Department' (ISHID) suggest that Raleigh could face sanctions ranging from a mandatory 'etiquette refresher course' to a temporary ban from all celebratory huddles. 'This isn't just about one player,' stated ISHID director Dr. Eleanor Vance. 'It’s about the fabric of our game. What’s next? Players refusing to retweet each other's highlight reels? The chaos would be unimaginable.'

The league is reportedly consulting with the United Nations on potential 'Geneva Convention' amendments to include explicit guidelines for athletic social interactions, ensuring that no player ever again feels the crushing weight of an unreciprocated gesture.