Mariners Veteran Issues Lengthy Apology After Violent Outburst During Rehab Game

Newsweek

2 days ago

Based on facts, either observed and verified firsthand by the reporter, or reported and verified from knowledgeable sources.
Seattle Mariners outfielder Victor Robles committed an egregious baseball offense on Sunday night.
Robles is rehabbing from a shoulder injury that has kept him sidelined for over four months, and he's been getting plunked by an unusually high amount of pitches during his brief time in the minors. When it nearly happened once again against the Athletics' Triple-A team, Robles snapped.
After a Joey Estes fastball came near his head, Robles whirled around and chucked his bat at the pitcher. He was ejected instantly, and on his way off the field, he hurled a bucket full of sunflower seeds onto the diamond.
LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA - AUGUST 7: A detail of the Seattle Mariners logo on a hat in the sixth inning during a game against the New York Mets at T-Mobile Park on August 10, 2024...
LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA - AUGUST 7: A detail of the Seattle Mariners logo on a hat in the sixth inning during a game against the New York Mets at T-Mobile Park on August 10, 2024 in Seattle, Washington. (Photo by)It was an ugly scene, and Robles can expect discipline from the league office. On Monday, after the dust had settled, the veteran issued a contrite apology.
Here was the full text of Robles' apology, posted to the outfielder's Instagram story on Monday morning:
"I want to take a moment to sincerely apologize for my recent reaction on the field. I let my frustration get the best of me, and I understand how that may have affected not just the game, but the energy and respect we all work so hard to maintain.
"Coming off a long rehab and being away from the game for most of the season has been physically and mentally challenging. Adding to that, the recent passing of my mother has been incredibly hard, and I've been doing my best to hold it together. That's not an excuse, but some context I feel you deserve to understand where I'm coming from.
"Getting hit 5 times in 15 at-bats added to that pressure, and I reacted in a way I'm not proud of. This game means the world to me, and so do the people who play it. I respect every one of you – my teammates, the opposing players, and everyone in this league.
"I'm committed to being better, not just as a player, but as a teammate and competitor. I appreciate your understanding, and I'm grateful to be back on the field doing what I love.
"Thank you."
The Mariners have to be discouraged by Robles' actions, especially if his suspension is a lengthy one. Their outfield could use another right-handed bat to platoon in right field with Dominic Canzone, and Robles, who was very good in the second half for them last year, may have taken himself off the table.
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