| | KISSIMMEE, Fla. -- Text of the statement Thursday by Atlanta
Braves pitcher John Rocker:
In a Dec. 23 issue of Sports Illustrated, I made several
comments of which I am ashamed.
|  | | John Rocker, left, talking with Braves manager Bobby Cox, rejoined the team for the first time since the World Series. |
In reading the article, I realized that in three major areas I
have hurt people. It was unintentional, but nevertheless, there was
damage done.
First, I used foul language and I owe an apology to the children
and families that see baseball players as role models. I have been
a poor example. I was not raised that way, and that kind of
language is not used where I come from.
Secondly, my comments concerning persons afflicted with AIDS, as
well as various minority groups, have left people wondering if I am
a racist. I will emphasize that I am not a racist, although I can
understand how someone who did not know me may think so.
Over a three-year period, while I was in the minor leagues, my
home in Macon was a place where players from different ethnic
groups and countries lived for as long as six months and as short
as two weeks. My closest friend is a first-generation Lebanese,
with his grandfather coming through Ellis Island no more than 60
years ago.
As you can see, my actions do not support this racist label. My
thoughtless words, however, do show that sometimes I lack the
understanding to see the problems that other people face. I
apologize to all of those my careless and unkind words have
affected.
Finally, my comments concerning my team were totally
unprofessional and out of line. To the Braves management, to Bobby
Cox, and to my entire team, I am extremely sorry for the stress and
confusion I have brought on the Braves organization.
An apology is no more than just words unless it is followed by
actions. I hope that this year I can somehow redeem myself.
I feel the arbitration process was a fair one and I will respect
and abide by its results. At this point in time, I want and need to
focus on helping my team. The Atlanta Braves organization and my
teammates are entitled to that. I recognize that this situation
will not simply go away, but please understand that I will have no
further comment on this matter. Thank you.
| |
ALSO SEE
Rocker rejoins Braves, tries to mend relationships
Arbitrator reduces Rocker's suspension
Rocker, in published editorial, says he's 'extremely sorry'
Gammons: Rocker, Strawberry and N.Y.
Reactions mixed to reduction in Rocker's suspension
AUDIO/VIDEO
 John Rocker makes his first public statement following his suspension.
RealVideo: | 28.8
 |
