Tigers analyst Jack Morris suspended for Ohtani comments

DETROIT (AP) — Detroit Tigers sportscaster Jack Morris has been suspended indefinitely for making racist remarks about Los Angeles Angels star Shohei Ohtani during Tuesday’s game.

When live commentator Matt Shepard asked how the Tigers should pitch against Ohtani in the sixth inning, Morris adopted an exaggerated East Asian accent and said, “Be very, very careful.” When Ohtani came back on in the ninth inning, Morris apologized profusely.

“It has been brought to my attention and I sincerely apologize if I have offended anyone, especially in the Asian community, with my statements about pitching and caution toward Shohei Ohtani,” Morris began before going on to talk about his respect for Ohtani’s talent.

Bally Sports Detroit announced the suspension on Wednesday.

“Bally Sports Detroit is extremely disappointed in the comments made by analyst Jack Morris during yesterday’s Tigers game,” the network said in a statement. “Jack has been suspended indefinitely from Tigers broadcasts and will undergo bias training to educate him on the impact of his comments and how he can make a positive impact on a diverse community. We have a zero-tolerance policy for bias or discrimination and deeply apologize for his insensitive remark.”

The Tigers, who retired Morris’ number after his induction into the National Baseball Hall of Fame, issued a similar statement.

“The Detroit Tigers take immense pride in honoring the diverse cultures that make up our players, coaches, front office, fan base and community,” the team said. “We are deeply disappointed by the comments made by Jack Morris during yesterday’s broadcast. We fully support Bally Sports Detroit’s decision and their ongoing commitment to ensuring all employees adhere to the highest standards of personal conduct.”

The incident occurred 31 years after Morris told a young reporter during his playing days that he “only talks to women when I’m naked and they’re on top of me or I’m on top of them.” Morris, who was not naked at the time, was defended by then-team president Bo Schembechler, who accused the Detroit Free Press of sending a reporter into the locker room.

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