KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) – Reds broadcaster Thom Brennaman used an anti-gay slur in the air during a Cincinnati game Wednesday night and later left the broadcast after an apology.
Brenneman used slur moments to return from a commercial break before the top of the seventh inning in the first game of a doubleheader in Kansas City. Brenneman did not feel that he was already in the air.
The 56-year-old Brennan remained in the second game until the top of the fifth inning when he spoke directly to the camera before handing over play-by-play duties.
“I made a comment earlier tonight that I think I went on the air I’m so embarrassed,” he said. “If I have hurt anyone, I cannot tell you how much I say from the bottom of my heart, I am very sorry.”
Brenneman said: “I don’t know if I’m going to put this headset on again” and apologized to the Reds, Fox Sports and its co-workers.
Major League Baseball was aware of the incident, but did not immediately comment. The Reds did not immediately respond to a request for comment.
Brenneman and the Reds Announcer were working from the Great American Ball Park in Cincinnati, even though the double concourse against the Royals was in Kansas City. Remote broadcasting has become the norm in baseball this year due to the coronavirus protocol.
The son of Hall of Fame broadcaster Marty Brenneman, Thoms has called major league games for 33 years and has been with Fox Sports for the past 27 years, covering mainly baseball and football.
Brenneman said, “I can’t begin to tell you how deeply I’m sorry.” “Who I am and have never been.” I think maybe I can find some people who can return it. I’m so sorry, I apologize to you. “
Broadcast partner Chris Welsh told Brenneman, “You’re a good person, partner. hang in there.”
The play was alternately broadcast by Play Man Jim Alternative.
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