DETROIT — Hall of Famer Jack Morris returned to the broadcast booth at Comerica Park on Friday, rejoining the Bally Sports Detroit television crew for the Rays-Tigers telecast after missing 10 games following remarks he made during a Tigers-Angels broadcast last month.
Morris had been suspended for comments he made on the air regarding the Tigers pitching Shohei Ohtani carefully. He underwent bias training during the time away from the booth.
Morris read a statement, including an apology, on the air before Friday’s game:
“To our viewing audience: Since I’ve been away from broadcasting games, I have focused on listening, learning and a lot of self-reflection. I have appreciated the opportunity to work with a bias training group. My words are important, and I’d like to read my statement to all of you:
“I again would like to sincerely apologize for my insensitive comment that I made in my last broadcast. I am very sorry that my comment offended so many people, especially the Asian community. I never intended for it to be hurtful or offensive to anyone. I understand that it was perceived that way by many and I am truly, truly sorry.
“I have a better understanding of the profound way bias impacts not just those in sports, but people across all areas of society. I want to be a positive influence in our community, in our diverse community. We all can and should be more sensitive and thoughtful about how and what we say, and how it might be perceived by others.
“I have the utmost respect for Shohei Ohtani and what he is doing for the game of baseball. He’s a class act, and one of the best players in today’s game. It’s exciting to watch him perform, and I’m one of his biggest fans. I love the diversity in baseball, and that it brings so many countries and cultures together in an inclusive way, in a game that I have loved my entire life.
“I am determined to be an advocate to educate athletes and people about how to be inclusive and encourage diversity. I am thrilled to be back broadcasting and working with Matt [Shepard] and all the gang here at Bally Sports and look forward to seeing what the Tigers will do tonight and into the future.”