"I am embarrassed by my actions” - When Roger McDowell apologized to the Braves organization for his inappropriate comments towards fans
Back in 2011, Roger McDowell was working as the pitching coach for the Atlanta Braves. However, he got involved in some controversy during a game against the San Francisco Giants on April 23.
It was reported that McDowell asked three men at Oracle Field if they were "a homo couple or a threesome." Justin Quinn, a father who was at the game with his wife and kid, heard the commotion and told McDowell, "Hey, there are kids out here."
McDowell took exception to the comment, walked over to Quinn, and asked him, "How much are your teeth worth?" The incident was reported, and McDowell received a two-week suspension without pay, per ESPN via the Associated Press.
"I commend Justin Quinn and his family for bringing this issue to our attention so that it will not happen again in the future," - said Bud Selig.
McDowell then issued an apology to the public. However, McDowell did ask MLB commissioner Bud Selig if he could apologize to the Quinn family personally a week before he released his statement.
"I am embarrassed by my actions and I plan to give a personal apology to Mr. Quinn and his family. I would also like to offer a public and heartfelt apology to the fans of San francisco, to the Atlanta Braves organization, my family, and to Major League Baseball" - said McDowell.
Braves president John Schuerholz was not happy with Roger McDowell
The remarks rubbed former Braves president John Schuerholz the wrong way. He also came out with a statement in which he did not agree with Roger McDowell's remarks.
"We were clearly disappointed in Roger's remarks and actions and [we] do not tolerate that kind of behavior," - said Schuerholz.
The Quinn family was then invited to a Giants home game as gets of Major League Baseball. Justin was happy with the outcome, especially the quick discipline of McDowell.
"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" - said Quinn.
McDowell returned to his role quickly after serving his two-week suspension. After spending 10+ seasons in Atlanta, he was then hired by the Baltimore Orioles for the 2017 and 1018 seasons.