Chicago White Sox star shortstop Tim Anderson has issued an apology after being handed a five-game suspension by Major League Baseball for his involvement in the recent altercation with Jose Ramirez of the Cleveland Guardians.
The suspension, originally set at six games, was reduced to five after an appeal by Anderson.
“I want to apologize to the entire White Sox organization, my teammates, manager, and coaches, and to the fans for my part in the altercation which took place in Cleveland,” Anderson said in a statement.
Acknowledging the disappointment of the season for both himself and the team, Anderson refrained from delving into the specifics of the verbal exchange that escalated the situation but took responsibility for his actions.
“I will not get into the things that were said to me by Cleveland players both Friday night and Saturday, but those comments do not excuse my language or conduct, and I take full responsibility for my actions getting the better of me,” Anderson continued.
He further emphasized his respect for the game of baseball, asserting that while the opposing players may express their opinions about him, his reverence for the sport remains unwavering. “No one has more respect for the game of baseball than me,” he said.
Tim Anderson posted an apology on his Instagram story pic.twitter.com/WiDiVQSFwP
— Talkin’ Baseball (@TalkinBaseball_) August 18, 2023
The altercation between Anderson and Ramirez occurred earlier this month during a game between the Chicago White Sox and the Cleveland Guardians. Tempers flared, leading to a heated exchange of words and eventually resulting punches.
A FIGHT BREAKS OUT BETWEEN TIM ANDERSON AND JOSE RAMIREZ
pic.twitter.com/psaVW5DXt0— MLB Metrics (@MLBMetrics) August 6, 2023