Roger McDowell, the Braves pitching coach who allegedly made gay slurs and threats toward Giants fans last Sunday in San Francisco, has issued an apology:
"I am deeply sorry that I responded to the heckling fans in San Francisco on Saturday. I apologize to everyone for my actions. "
While the apology is rather short and to the point, it doesn't clear up the situation or offer any other side, but that is probably what the Braves are wanting from McDowell, and it's probably what he's being told to do. The Braves added a statement (via David O'Brien):
"We were made aware of an incident in San Francisco this past Saturday. We are concerned by these allegations and the behavior described by a witness today. This in no way represents the Braves organization and the conduct we expect of our employees. We will withhold further comments until we finish gathering information."
From Bud Selig:
"I was informed today that Roger McDowell, a coach of the Atlanta Braves, is being accused of engaging in highly inappropriate conduct toward fans at a game in San Francisco. Although I do not yet have all the facts regarding this incident, the allegations are very troubling to me. The Atlanta Braves have assured my office that they will immediately investigate the allegations, and report the results of the investigation to me. After I have all the facts, I will make a determination of how to proceed."
According to O'Brien, McDowell was not available for comment after Wednesday's game in San Diego, and he was not in the clubhouse. Players were told not to comment, as well. The Braves are keeping a tight lid on this and for good reason.