Major League Baseball suspended Josh Donaldson from Monday’s game after he made numerous references to Jackie Robinson while speaking to Tim Anderson, White Sox star.
Donaldson was also fined an undisclosed sum for his actions at Yankee Stadium on Saturday. Michael Hill, senior vice president of operations for MLB, announced the punishment.
Donaldson decided to appeal the penalty. The Yankees announced Donaldson’s suspension shortly before it was made public.
“MLB has concluded the process of speaking with the individuals involved in this matter. It is not disputable what was said on field. Hill stated in a statement that regardless of Mr. Donaldson’s intentions, Anderson’s comment was insensitive and poor judgement, especially when it is viewed in context of their previous interactions.”
He said that “In addition, Mr. Donaldson’s remark was also a contributing factor to a bench-clearing episode between the teams, which warrants discipline.”
Ethan Katz, White Sox pitching coach, didn’t believe the penalty was sufficient.
“Just one game. We all saw his malice at the third week ago, then this comment and the ridiculous excuse that ensued. What is the message or point of a one-game suspension? Katz shared the following tweet: “This is incredibly disappointing, and it’s plain frustrating.”
Monday was a day of rest for the White Sox. They will not be playing the Yankees this season.
AL East leader New York will open a three-game series against Baltimore Monday night, before heading to Tampa Bay for a set of four games beginning Thursday.
Donaldson claimed that Anderson was twice called by him by “Jackie”, as in Robinson, who broke the MLB’s color barrier in 1947. This was during Saturday’s 7-5 victory for the Yankees. Tensions rose and the benches and bullpens were empty.
Anderson, a baseball legend and All-Star shortstop, stated that it was a “disrespectful observation.” Tony La Russa, White Sox manager, agreed.
“It was basically trying to call Jackie Robinson. Anderson said, “What’s the matter, Jackie?” after Saturday’s match.
Donaldson, a white man, stated that he used the “Jackie” reference with Anderson in the past. Anderson had previously said that he considered himself to be a modern-day Robinson during a 2019 interview with Sports Illustrated.
Donaldson stated Saturday that his meaning of “that” is not racist in any way.
Anderson and Donaldson (2015 AL MVP) did not meet with media when the White Sox won a doubleheader at Yankee Stadium. Donaldson, a Yankees spokesperson, stated that he had not spoken to Anderson since the incident.
Anderson began the second game. He was booed and some fans chanted “Jackie!” at him. Anderson hit a home run for three runs in the eighth inning to give the 5-0 victory. He then raised his finger in a silent gesture and rounded the bases.
Aaron Boone, Yankees manager, said that he spoke to Donaldson after Saturday’s game. He believed his player’s explanation of why he made the “Jackie” remark. However, he also stated that he felt Donaldson shouldn’t have used this term.
