Boston Red Sox Announcer Apologizes for Controversial Criticism of Yankees Star Jazz Chisholm Jr.: ‘Should Have Used Different Words’

Frank Franklin II/AP

Boston Red Sox radio announcer Will Flemming apologized Monday amid backlash over his criticism of New York Yankees star Jazz Chisholm Jr.

During the Yankees’ Sunday game against the Red Sox, Chisholm stole a pair of bases in the bottom of the eighth inning while his team was 7-1. The move infuriated Flemming, who claimed Chisholm was a “bush league player” and even suggested that the Red Sox pitcher should intentionally hit Yankees catcher Austin Wells in retaliation.

“Wouldn’t you sort of like to see Moran drill Wells right here?” Flemming said to his broadcast partner, Will Middlebrooks. “Well, he’s a bush league player. It’s not even a steal!”

Moments later, Wells hit a two-run home run to bring Chisholm home and make it a 9-1 game. Flemming, however, wasn’t done talking about Chisholm.

“Chisholm, I’m gonna say it,” he continued. “He plays the game the wrong way.”

In response to the backlash that continued into Monday, Flemming apologized for the remarks. In a pair of tweets posted Monday afternoon, he said:

Since I have been receiving nonstop calls and threats, I felt like it was important to hop back on here and say: My comments during yesterday’s broadcast crossed a line. I’m emotional and a fan at heart and that bled into the broadcast.

I meant no disrespect to the Yankees players or organization. I could and should have used different words. These rivalry games get me fired up; I apologize for letting the emotion of the moment get the best of me.

Chisholm, on the other hand, appeared unfazed by the whole ordeal. A report from The Athletic read:

“I didn’t even know who that was until this morning,” Chisholm said of Flemming. “And I’m still not going to remember who he is after today.”

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