MLB Fines and Suspends Roger McDowell Over ‘Gay Slurs’

The Atlanta Braves have lost pitching coach Roger McDowell for two weeks. McDowell was put on “administrative leave” last week by the team after he shouted homophobic slurs at a family during a game in San Francisco.

Major League Baseball has suspended the coach for two weeks and he will be fined an undisclosed amount of money.

In a statement on Sunday Commissioner Bud Selig said:

“Conduct by people associated with MLB that shows insensitivity to others simply cannot and will not be tolerated.”

According to Gloria Allred who is representing attacked fan Justin Quinn:

“The fact that Coach McDowell will be subjected to an unprecedented two-week suspension, be required to take sensitivity training and be fined, demonstrates that Major League Baseball believes that homophobic slurs, sexually lewd conduct and threatening behavior by Coaches or any other person employed at a game in the Major League will not be tolerated.”

Quinn seemed pleased with the leagues decision, stating:

“I am pleased to see Major League Baseball imposing discipline on Coach McDowell for his actions. I love baseball dearly and my family and I are now looking forward to getting back to the ballpark for another game.”

While McDowell also released a statement with an apology attached:

“I understand the decision made today by the Commissioner. I am embarrassed by my actions and I plan to give a personal apology to Mr. Quinn and his family.”