Toronto Blue Jays outfielder Kevin Pillar has apologized for "inappropriate language" to his opponent, teammates and the LGBTQ community as Major League Baseball investigates his use of an anti-gay slur during Wednesday's game.
Pillar struck out swinging to end the seventh inning, he says, after he was quick-pitched by Atlanta Braves pitcher Jason Motte, yelling toward the mound before Braves catcher Kurt Suzuki stepped in to calm things and the benches cleared. The Blue Jays outfielder apologized for his reaction after the game but did not indicate what he said on the field.
Thursday's statement on Twitter took his apology further. Pillar apologized to Motte, the Braves and their fans and "most importantly, to the LGBTQ community" for using "a word that has no place in baseball, in sports or anywhere in society today."
— Kevin Pillar (@KPILLAR4) May 18, 2017
When asked Thursday whether Pillar was being investigated for use of an anti-gay slur, MLB commissioner Rob Manfred said: "We were made aware of an allegation along the lines of what you've described, and we're in the process of trying to gather the facts as a prelude to determine whether and what discipline is appropriate."
The Blue Jays also issued a statement on Thursday, saying they "are extremely disappointed" and extended their own apologies "to all fans, Major League Baseball and especially the LGBTQ community."
Statement from the Toronto Blue Jays. pic.twitter.com/ASZuzUM6RM
— Blue Jays (@BlueJays) May 18, 2017
In 2012, then-Blue Jays shortstop Yunel Escobar, now with the Los Angeles Angels, was suspended three games without pay for displaying an anti-gay slur on his eye-black.
ESPN's Jerry Crasnick and The Associated Press contributed to this report.
