[ad_1]
Here’s something you don’t hear often: Stephen A. Smith saying he’s sorry for the comments he made on TV.
Smith landed in hot water after appearing Monday on ESPN “First take ” when he made a controversial observation on Los Angeles Angels slugger and ace Shohei Ohtani.
“I understand that baseball is an international sport itself in terms of participation. But when you talk about an audience that gravitates to the subway or the stadium to actually watch, you, OK, I don’t think it helps that the number one face is a dude who needs a performer so you can understand what it is. saying.”
Introducing Yankees Insider: Receive exclusive news, behind-the-scenes insight and the ability to text directly with the beat makers
A few hours later, Smith took Twitter go back to his comments by saying “I am sincerely sorry. “
Let me apologize now. As I watch things unfold, let me say that I never intended to offend ANY COMMUNITY, especially the Asian community – and in particular SHOHEI Ohtani, himself. As an African American, fully aware of the damage that stereotypes have done to many people in this country, it should have raised my sensitivity even more. From what I said, I failed in this regard and it is mine, and mine alone! Ohtani is one of the brightest stars in all sports. It makes a difference, in terms of inclusion and leadership. I should have embraced this in my comments. Instead, I fucked up. Nowadays, with all the violence perpetrated against the Asian community, my comments – albeit unintentional – were clearly callous and regrettable. There is simply no other way to put it. I am sincerely sorry for any angst I have caused with my comments on First Take (Monday). Once again, I am sorry. And I will gladly repeat these words at greater length (Tuesday) morning as well.
Ohtani is the starting pitcher and first hitter in the American League in Tuesday’s All-Star game. Ohtani, who leads the MLB with 33 home runs, lost in the first round of Monday’s Home Run Derby to Washington Nationals hitter Juan Soto.
Receive Yankees SMS: Eliminate the clutter of social media and text with beat editors and columnists. Plus, get breaking news, insights and exclusive analysis every day. Register now.
Thank you for relying on us to provide you with journalism you can trust. Please consider supporting NJ.com with a subscription.
Mike Rosenstein can be reached at [email protected]. Tell us your coronavirus story or send a tip here.
[ad_2]
Source link