(WWJ) -- Tigers Hall of Famer and broadcaster Jack Morris has apologized for an offensive comment he made during Tuesday’s game against the Los Angeles Angels.
During the sixth inning, in reference to Angels superstar Shohei Ohtani, Morris spoke in a tone that mocks English-speaking Asians.
While Ohtani was at bat, Tigers announcer Matt Shepard asked, “Now what do you do with Shohei Ohtani?” to which Morris replied, with an accent: “Be very, very careful.”
Morris's apology came toward the end of the game -- in the 9th inning:
“Well folks, Shohei Ohtani is coming to the plate and it’s been brought to my attention and I sincerely apologize if I offended anybody, especially anybody in the Asian community for what I said about pitching and being careful,” Morris said. “Shohei Ohtani - I did not intend for any offensive thing and I apologize if I did.”
“I certainly respect and have the utmost respect for this guy, and don’t blame the pitcher for walking him,” he added.
The Asian American Journalists Association's Sports Task Force has issued a statement, calling Morris' apology "insensitive and ignorant,” saying it referenced only the words he chose but not the stereotypical, racist accent he used.
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