Arizona Diamondbacks broadcaster and former manager Bob Brenly is taking a break after on-air comments he made about New York Mets pitcher Marcus Stroman.
The Associated Press reported that Brenly was working for Bally Sports Arizona during the Diamondbacks’ 6-5 home win over the Mets on Tuesday. Brenly was talking about Stroman’s headwear when he said, “pretty sure that’s the same do-rag that Tom Seaver used to wear when he pitched for the Mets.”
Stroman is a Black starting pitcher who has been in Major League Baseball since 2014. Seaver, a white pitcher who died in 2020, was in the big leagues from 1967 until 1986.
Stroman responded by Tweeting “Onward and upward…through all adversity and racist undertones. The climb continues through all!” He added “All hate/negativity gets converted into blessings with the proper mindset,” and also sold do-rags through HDMH Apparel.
The 67-year-old Brenly managed the Diamondbacks from 2001 until 2004, including winning the 2001 World Series. He apologized to Stroman in a Wednesday statement in which he said, “During last night’s game, I made a poor attempt at humor that was insensitive and wrong. I apologize to Marcus Stroman and have reached out directly to share those thoughts. I have had several conversations with the D-backs and we agree that seeking sensitivity training is an important step so that I can continue to learn from my mistakes in order to be better in the future.”
He didn’t work during Arizona’s Thursday loss to the Brewers, and announced that he is temporarily stepping away.
“Beginning today, I have voluntarily decided to take some time off to listen, reflect and devote my attention to awareness training related to diversity and inclusion to enhance my understanding and appreciation of others,” Brenly said Thursday. “I plan to return to the booth next homestand, hopefully a better person.”
