Roger McDowell: A good pitching coach is in deep trouble

Derek

April 27th, 2011
9:40 pm

WOW. First?

Draggin Fly

April 27th, 2011
9:41 pm

First?

D A DoubleU G

April 27th, 2011
9:43 pm

I hate this, but I actually feel you need to let him go.

Anti-gay slurs are the equivalent of racial slurs, and you bet your butt he would be let go for that.

I think the temporary replacement would be clear. He is currently a co-host on a morning radio show on 680 The Fan. I am not suggesting Leo Mazzone begin a new long career, but I think he would be willing to help out for the remainder of this season, and possibly even next.

I always supported you Roger, but if we do not let you go, this will be some serious PR we could do without. Cue the gay rights marches and demonstrations at Turner Field until action is taken…..

Braves Fan in Alaska

April 27th, 2011
9:44 pm

If Roger indeed behaved as is alleged, he should lose his job. Sorry.

D A DoubleU G

April 27th, 2011
9:45 pm

I don’t exactly remember the context in which he said it, but just the other week on my way to class, Leo Mazzone was talking on his morning show that there are times he REALLY misses being out there.

He just may get his wish in the next few days.

Najeh Davenpoop

April 27th, 2011
9:46 pm

He should have stuck to magic loogies.

MattyB

April 27th, 2011
9:46 pm

This is bad, bad, bad. Somebody call 680 The Fan and ask what the buyout is on Leo’s radio contract.

SportsPaige

April 27th, 2011
9:47 pm

why don’t know EXACTLY what was said to McDowell? Otherwise its made to look like nothing was said to provoke anything, that he just went on a tirade out of the blue. Let’s get an EXACT description on what was said or done to Roger. I agree that athletes and coaches should hold themselves in check, there is always a tipping point with everybody. And hiring Allred just shows these folks want a monetary payment and not so ‘concerned’ as they say they are. Just the times we live in I guess.

Bryan G.

April 27th, 2011
9:47 pm

Can we bring back John Rocker?

Mandingo

April 27th, 2011
9:47 pm

What an overpaid jerk. I believe I dont belong at the ballpark as long as this redneck is still a coach

Tucker T

April 27th, 2011
9:48 pm

This is very troubling. I find the behavior to be reprehensible. It’s a tough call on whether he should lose his job. The Braves have always represented themselves as a classy organization so part of me thinks he will get fired but the season just started with a new manager who is still somewhat unfamiliar with the pitching staff. If they do fire him, what do they do then?

'91 Baby

April 27th, 2011
9:48 pm

Honestly who cares? He’s a great coach who did something stupid. It was a one time offense I don’t think throwing the guy under the bus is a good reaction either. Leo is retired he isn’t coming back

Bright Idea

April 27th, 2011
9:49 pm

Let’s first prove beyond any doubt that this family actually set McDowell off or if they just heard what he said directed toward others. That does not excuse him but that point should be made clear.

Blue

April 27th, 2011
9:50 pm

Got to love free speech

Wat Wat Wat

April 27th, 2011
9:51 pm

he screwed up bad, but shouldn’t get fired. braves will have to do massive pr for this.

He probably will get fired, though. I have to think he was instigated (that picture AND Gloria Allred make me think this is a cash grab, just a bit to sweet) and the location of the park i’m sure made a difference in his “approach”. But it is still unacceptable and an embarrassment to the city.

Bad, stupid situation. And gloria allred is a freaking joke. still, unacceptable

Tucker T

April 27th, 2011
9:51 pm

It doesn’t matter what was said to McDowell. There is no excuse for that type of behavior.

Bryan G.

April 27th, 2011
9:51 pm

Gotta get rid of him. Can’t have someone like that representing your team.

Ted

April 27th, 2011
9:52 pm

Thanks for taking this on in your column. Roger McDowell is a disgrace. Hopefully the media won’t make excuses for his despicable comments.

Reverie

April 27th, 2011
9:52 pm

Gloria Allred the publicity whore? Really? Words that require an attorney? A CELEBRITY attorney? Really? OK, what he allegedly said was ugly but really people. What a bunch of infants. If Roger said it then fine him and move on.

shawn

April 27th, 2011
9:52 pm

I can not believe Roger would say such irresposible and stupid stuff, however, let’s have all the facts and then kill him. If he said what he accused of, then he needs some counseling not losing his job.

John Leonard

April 27th, 2011
9:54 pm

Mark you should give a warning before showing a picture of Allred.

D A DoubleU G

April 27th, 2011
9:55 pm

Whatever was said to McDowell is completely irrelevant.

Heckling the opposing team is just as part of the ballpark as hot dogs and beer. I admit sometimes it gets out of hand, and when it does, it is up to stadium security to do something about it, not the players or coaches on the field.

WHATEVER was said, the ONLY justifiable response from McDowell would have been to alert security.

This is an embarrassment for the Braves organization and the fans who support them, and in turn pay McDowell’s checks.

The only satisfactory action that can be taken to please all parties is for the Braves to immediately pack his bags.

showme714

April 27th, 2011
9:55 pm

So what if he is a homophobe. This is still America barely and he has a right to like or not like a lifestyle just like anyone else. Now his judgement was bad in this setting. Like someone said before , “if it had been racial”, no one would be making such a big fuss. But gays are somehow the new oppressed minority.

Jeff R

April 27th, 2011
9:56 pm

“Allegations”… “Alleged”…

So what are the facts?

Najeh Davenpoop

April 27th, 2011
9:56 pm

This is the first time I’m seeing an actual picture of Gloria Allred. I always assumed she looked like this.

Dr. Phil

April 27th, 2011
9:56 pm

I spent a week in FL in March watching Braves’ games. Roger regularly walked down the fence line and chatted with fans. I saw him pretend to steal a Yankees’ hat from a kid in Tampa, then return it with a baseball. I do not believe that Roger said anything about kids not belonging at a ball park. If he responded to heckling, he was stupid. Hecklers are stupid. Bud Selig is stupid, too.

DC Brave

April 27th, 2011
9:57 pm

I like what McDowell has done with the staff, but if this is right, his behavior is completely and unequivically unacceptable, especially for a guy (and a franchise) representing the “City Too Busy to Hate” . . . .

The Braves and Atlanta deserve a lot better than this. Again, if the allegations are true (or even mostly true) its a fireable offense.

GoBravesGo

April 27th, 2011
9:57 pm

if you go to an NBA, NFL, MLB,NHL, porf wrestling, nascar etc. etc..you will hear similar or worse stuff being said by players and coaches..4 letter words are the norm at professional sporting events
and then you bring out this hack alldred, yeah that helps your case

Reggie

April 27th, 2011
9:58 pm

Another MLB “Thug”

UGASlobberknocker

April 27th, 2011
10:02 pm

If it was a heat of the moment thing ..thats bad enough..he shouldbe suspended..it it was ongoing with those two girls there..he should be fired tomorrow

Tom

April 27th, 2011
10:06 pm

I see you wont let God into your blog. One day He will deny you also.

CONservative Johnson

April 27th, 2011
10:07 pm

Here we go with the “free speech” people who don’t actually understand what the 1st Amendment does and doesn’t do . . .

tnation

April 27th, 2011
10:07 pm

no matter what they said to him he shouldn’t have responded that way, so it won’t matter and if others heard it mcdowell will be gone, as he should be. i hate it, but we need someone focused on the crappy bullpen rather than the heckling fans.

JacketFan

April 27th, 2011
10:09 pm

Unacceptable. How in the crap did gay slurs start with that family anyways? How in the hell do they even look remotely gay?

Makes no sense. He apologized for it, so he must have said something. You always have to be careful with celebrity attorneys as well, they are like twice as dirty as a typical attorney.

luvthosedawgs68

April 27th, 2011
10:09 pm

As a Braves fan, and a gay man, I have to say I am disappointed in the comments uttered by
Roger. As for earlier comments, I agree that there will have to be some damage control on the teams end of this. I also would like to say, If you think that Philly fans can be rude, San Francisco fans are the Worst when it comes to being rude. I’ve been to several ballparks over the last 25 years, and Giant fans are by far the WORST when it comes to visitor fans watching games in SF.

John

April 27th, 2011
10:09 pm

I really am curious. So where is that “thug” word that gets tossed around these blogs all the time? Surely it’s not reserved for just one group of people in our society now is it? Is Roger not a thug?

TROTTINGHOME

April 27th, 2011
10:12 pm

It’s over rodger…you are done…and no….Leo won’t be taking his place..very sad…america has got to get over tis fear of anything not white or heterosexual.

Huh???

April 27th, 2011
10:14 pm

Don’t know what was said only the blog comments to judge him IF he said anything overly offensive. The man apologized so obviously he said something, but is it actionable the basis for a lawsuit? Don’t know yet so cannot comment on what he said. While waiting, I can comment on the fact they hired a media whore, Gloria Allred, to file suit for ???? (terroristic threats?). Also, why is there a bat on the table when no one has alleged McDowell did anything to anyone with a bat? Why are there 4 or 5 network microphones in front of the accuser/victim? Why is Gloria Allred in the picture with the family? Why is this picture in the newspaper when there is no assertion that any lawsuit has even been filed? Why is the man’s daughter praying? To get a monetary settlement out of the Braves, McDowell or baseball itself. Check out Allred’s track record, the second it appears no damage was incurred – and no one contends there was a physical action – she will be gone. No camera’s no Allred. If McDowell did get into a nasty verbal confontation, baseball and the Braves will take care of the situation because, just as Allred, they are extremely aware of what public perception means irrespective of the true facts. ‘91 Baby, you got it right.

Greg

April 27th, 2011
10:15 pm

If everything happened as was alleged he will be fired and he should be. The fact that he is a coach and has been around long enough to know how to control himself will be held against him. Plus, if the allegations are true then he didn’t just make a gay slur, which would be problem itself, but he made sexual gestures, may have threatened someone with a bat and made the stupid comment about kids.
If all that’s true, then he looks pretty out of control. Gotta get rid of a guy that represents your team and city like that. He is a good coach and appeared to be a calm dude…that’s why this sucks so bad…

Mike

April 27th, 2011
10:16 pm

THINK OF THE CHILDREN!!!!!

Give me a break. The Braves have never supported anti-homophobic behavior. The Giants openly supported a drugs abusing cheater for a buck. Crappy organization.

Are those the same kids the conservative Christian folks trotted out a few years ago to denounce Sunday alcohol sales?

Mike

April 27th, 2011
10:16 pm

Speaking of kids at the ballpark, about 80% of the fans could stand to clean up their mouths in the stands. The lack of respect for families (kids) is real.

Plane Driver

April 27th, 2011
10:17 pm

Under NO circumstances can you offend homosexuals. No other group enjoys the protection that gays have. Ask King and Spaulding, ask Anita Bryant, ask Atlanta PD Reddog unit. NO ONE gets away with even looking at homosexuals crossways these days. Good luck keeping your job coach, you could have won 1000 games, lost none and still be fired for this offense.

chem

April 27th, 2011
10:17 pm

What are these little leaguers thinking showing up at the ballpark eating all the corndogs? Baseball is only for grown men! psssh!

Brad Clontz

April 27th, 2011
10:17 pm

This makes me like him MORE!

What a joke, everyone always looking for a payday these days.

leroy

April 27th, 2011
10:19 pm

Way to support your pitching coach Atlanta fans. You guys are pathetic…

Renowned publicity hound Gloria Allred (who has ZERO credibility) marches some folks out who accuse a coach of an opposing team of non PC speech and you guys throw him under the bus with no audio, no video, no evidence, no witnesses- only her and their accusations.

Pitiful… at least give the man the benefit of the doubt and the chance to answer and to produce witnesses of his own.

Plane Driver

April 27th, 2011
10:20 pm

Why did this family have to hire such a high profile lawyer? How did they even know to contact her? You look at that photo and its the second coming of Snow White. You can bet your last dollar the photo is staged by that high dollar lawyer. She is a master at law suits and money is on their minds.

James Dean

April 27th, 2011
10:22 pm

Najeh–That representation of Allred seems accurate after seeing the video, no?

And did anybody see the footage at the end where she strokes the bat like McDowell supposedly did?
–The woman is pure evil, I say…

John

April 27th, 2011
10:22 pm

So Leroy, if he said nothing wrong then why come out with the preemptive apology?

sensible person

April 27th, 2011
10:24 pm

McDowell should NOT be fired. Maybe sensitivity training and a fine. It’s not like this is some kind of pattern. Gloria Allred is a skank. She is almost a worse publicity whore as Jessie Jackson…but not quite. She’s garbage. Braves are a class organization. They will handle this in the right way. A one time mistake should not cost Roger his job. PERIOD.

Braves Fan80

April 27th, 2011
10:25 pm

Is that $$$$ signs floating above Allreds head ?

John

April 27th, 2011
10:25 pm

Forget what he said about gay people. Do you know he also allegedly said “kids don’t belong at a ballpark.” He is basically admitting this by apologizing. And this happened in San Francisco, the tech capital of the world. You have to believe someone with a smart phone recorded video.

He’s toast.

dawg4u

April 27th, 2011
10:26 pm

It is disappointing that Roger made these comments and very surprising that so many are ready to “pack his bags” and throw him under the bus. He needs to have a press conference and make a sincere public apology and definitely show remorse for these awful comments. I have opened my mouth at times exposing some prejudices and really felt ashamed for having uttered the words and later changed my wrongful thinking. If Roger McDowell is truly remorseful for saying this and apoligizes then he should be forgiven and keep his job. If he doesn’t address this situation further, however, then he should be fired.

James Dean

April 27th, 2011
10:26 pm

Aww… In the picture, the little girl on the right is STILL praying for forgiveness for all the horrible things she saw… And Allred is back there counting up money…

In Fredi I Am Trusting A Little

April 27th, 2011
10:28 pm

Bring back Leo Mazzone or try to get Smoltz or Glavine in as PC. The Braves don’t need this negative attention to their team.

In all honesty, I never liked Roger McDowell, so I hope that he gets fired and we get another PC in here. What a hack if this is true. The thing here is that multiple people are stating that all of this was done, so things don’t look good for Roger.

Braves Fan80

April 27th, 2011
10:30 pm

So Gloria stages a press conference and espn writes a story about it.The bigger she can make this story the bigger the $$$ she will get to shut her up.

Poorbrave

April 27th, 2011
10:31 pm

He who is without sin…cast the first stone. Get all the facts before hanging the man. If quilty he still shouldn’t lose his job. There is other ways to punish him. Looks like someone trying to get alot of money for nothing. For give and forget.

I would still love to see Leo back………

D A DoubleU G

April 27th, 2011
10:31 pm

I thought about Smoltz too,

But he is enjoying his golf too much right no, and he deserves to do so more than anybody.

I do believe Smoltz will be the pitching coach, just not until 2015 at the earliest.

Braves 2011

April 27th, 2011
10:33 pm

After Rocker, we don’t need this.
The smartest people on television laugh off insults.
Ron Paul did that on CNBC this morning instead of taking offense with a questioner trying to get under his skin.
The additional problem for the Braves is once hecklers know they can get to you, you’ve guaranteed yourself more of the same treatment.

WTF

April 27th, 2011
10:34 pm

So you can say publicity whore, but not whore?
Ajc – you are part of the problem.

Braves Fan80

April 27th, 2011
10:34 pm

How horrible!!! Did he actually say kids dont belong at the park?Oh me Oh my what awfullness!!Give Gloria her money and play ball.

BornADawg

April 27th, 2011
10:35 pm

The way I read it in an earlier article was there were some words exchanged between McDowell and three others. Apparently this gentleman pictured above took exception to some of the language being used, asked McDowell to tone it down around his family and apparently it escalated from there. While I don’t agree in any way if some of the things that have been written were actually said by McDowell, I agree, let’s not throw him under the bus just yet. It’s going to be interesting to see how this finally pans out. But at this point in time, I support our pitching coach. If he is indeed found guilty of these charges, this organization has no choice but to cut ties with him.

Braves 2011

April 27th, 2011
10:36 pm

Smoltz would be great.
Great for making the Braves family friendly too as this could hurt our rep.
I bet he’d take the job if offered it.

nerf

April 27th, 2011
10:36 pm

The guys on this board defending this coach (Leroy,Mike) are not seeing what having a guy like this on the team means. Do the Braves really want to be known as the team who has a coach who offends children and gays? I’m sorry but he should know better. Gloria Allred is a scum bag attorney, true. That doesn’t change the fact that Atlanta can not have this kind of coach or the image he will now represent forever.

JC Boscan III

April 27th, 2011
10:36 pm

This is SOOOOOOOOOO ridiculous. IF McDowell was NOT provoked by some fans, his remarks would seem odd regardless of the exact line of attack he used. If he WAS provoked, it doesn’t justify him verbally assaulting the fans. BUT, what kind of pathetic people have to hire an attorney, much less Gloria Allred the Publicity Hound, to turn this into a LEGAL case!!?!?! Is this the spirit that made America great —– hiring a lawyer because someone yelled at you!?!?! What a bunch of wusses!!!! What a weak nation we are becoming………hire a lawyer and seek attention and maybe a pile of cash…………….BARF…!!!!!!!!!!!!! (note, I’m NOT saying that whatever McDowell said was “nice” or appropriate) ………….like Tom Hanks could have said in that movie – “there’re no lawsuits in BASEBALL….!!! Unless a lawyer can turn the double play or lay down a great bunt, they should stay OUT of the national pasttime!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!:>

BornADawg

April 27th, 2011
10:37 pm

By the way, does she remind anyone of Nancy Pelosi or is it just me? Just asking!

georgiavol

April 27th, 2011
10:37 pm

Gloria Allred is a shake down artist who would make Jesse Jackson blush. Sensitivity training? Give me a freakin’ break. Let the hypocrites crawl out from their rocks. Financial apology, anyone?

Until Proven Guilty

April 27th, 2011
10:39 pm

That family looks pathetic. Why don’t they just go out and pan-handle for money.

Asdf

April 27th, 2011
10:40 pm

Fire him immediately

Ralph

April 27th, 2011
10:40 pm

Maby a new pitching coach would get rid if those two worthless relief pitchers, Linebrink and Sherrill, it isn’t that we don’t have ample replacements.

John

April 27th, 2011
10:41 pm

georgiavol, so answer this question, why come out with the preemptive apology? I totally agree with you on Gloria, but how does that excuse the alleged statements? If he said what he is accused of saying, he needs to go.

bravesfan

April 27th, 2011
10:41 pm

nerf you never did anything wrong. You and so others need to get a life and see the real world.

Dennis Reynolds

April 27th, 2011
10:42 pm

Have you heard the feedback he has gotten from not only the younger pitchers, but from vets like Lowe?
McDowell is a very good pitching coach and I hope he doesn’t get fired.

Until Proven Guilty

April 27th, 2011
10:42 pm

It’s a big, tough world out there kids and occasionally you’ll hear a man use naughty language. Most imporantly though, make sure you hear a man with a lot of money use that language so mom and dad and their attorney can all get paid.

Braves Fan in Alaska

April 27th, 2011
10:43 pm

Could you act like Roger McDowell did at your place of employment and keep your job? I hope not. Come on Atlanta, in the rest of the country the South already has a reputation for being homophobic rednecks. If you keep McDowell around, you will just reinforce that stereotype. If the Braves are class organization (and I believe that for the most part they are) they will have to fire McDowell.

CaptainMudderland

April 27th, 2011
10:43 pm

This is a real troubling situation–obviously something was said by Roger, regardless of Ms. Allred’s involvement or motives, certainly better control and diplomacy should have been exercised. Tellingly, this is not the first time something negative has been said to a MLB player and/or coach–I would be interested in discovering why in this particular case anything was said from the field…very sad if what the fans alledge eventually is proven true.

Ty Cobb

April 27th, 2011
10:44 pm

This isn’t, of course, McDowell’s first brush with heckling fans. He famously spit on Cosmo Kramer and Newman as they left a Mets game. Two strikes and you’re out, McDowell.

Braves 2011

April 27th, 2011
10:44 pm

I guess there is no way of knowing but it sounds to me like he showed up for work under the influence of one drug or another.
After all his experience in baseball, he ought to know better than to get into it with fans.

Rick Ankiel

April 27th, 2011
10:45 pm

Roger is a THUG! Come on now Georgians, we can apply the word to white people as well right?

haybud

April 27th, 2011
10:46 pm

@John he really needs to go over some comment like this in sports? Crap like this is said incredibly frequently, but is rarely reported. Him being fired over this is a gd kowtow by the MLB and Braves ownership.

shmoe

April 27th, 2011
10:46 pm

sorry, but unless something is on record, either on tape, audio, video, or print…it doesn’t stand up in court and is just hearsay. just another family vying for time in the spotlight. provide the evidence, then mcdowell should be let go. otherwise, everyone go on their way.

SWGADAWG

April 27th, 2011
10:46 pm

I am offended daily by Mark Bradley…can he be fired???? He shouldn’t have said it. He should be a professional and a decent human. But the fans need get over it. Every time someone is offended it’s the end of the world. Escpecially if it’s a politically correct group. Of course if you aren’t a protected group then have at em…..

Until Proven Guilty

April 27th, 2011
10:47 pm

I love when all the holier than now folks come out of the wood work.

Braves fan in Savannah

April 27th, 2011
10:48 pm

I think that McDowell’s apology and explanation didn’t go far enough and barely met the minimum requirement for contrition. Somebody in SF turned his dial past the red line and there is clearly something going on there with his response to the hecklers and then his response to the family. Roger needs to do more and say more about what provoked him in order to have any shot at keeping his job. The Braves need to get in front of this before the Comish paints them into a corner.

what a joke

April 27th, 2011
10:50 pm

Braves fan in Alaska….Homophobic rednecks in South? is that why you in Alaska?

Until Proven Guilty

April 27th, 2011
10:51 pm

Well said shmoe.

what a joke

April 27th, 2011
10:54 pm

Great Braves 2011…I’d love for you to be on my jury. Hang’em high!

GoBraves

April 27th, 2011
10:54 pm

shouldnt have acted like that but dont fire the guy. issue an apology, fine him and let it go. people have done worse. and enough with Gloria Allred. how has she not been “taken care of” yet? she loves cameras and only wants attention. i hope she dies very soon

Braves 2011

April 27th, 2011
10:55 pm

Hey maybe none of us have a life to be wasting time on this.
A chance to get in last words before the tornado hits.

TexasRose

April 27th, 2011
10:56 pm

Man, oh, man…a lot of people on here must stay slim by jumping to conclusions. Let’s wait patiently until the FACTS are in, not allegations and claims…and then see what needs to be done, if anything. I have seen references to ‘crime’ – what crime would have been committed, even given the worst reported ‘allegation?’ I see a cash grab fashioned by the alway$ pre$ent Gloria Allcash…

gumbylovespokey

April 27th, 2011
10:56 pm

Enter your comments here

rmf

April 27th, 2011
10:56 pm

I don’t where this ends up for Roger but for those of wishing for Leo — its not going to happen. His day with the Braves is over. If Roger gets the boot they already have an experienced and well respected pitching coach, Dave Wallace, in the organization — he will be the guy.

FWIW, I think Leo’s act has grown stale and he has become overly impressed with himself.

As repulsive as I find Gloria Allred and as much as I think this appears to be a money grab on the part of the family, I can’t believe McDowell would get goaded into saying stuff like that to fans no matter what they were saying to them. He has been around long enough to know to ignore this stuff.

I really hope McDowell has a better explanation for all of this.

what a joke

April 27th, 2011
10:57 pm

Stay safe anyway 2011.God Bless.

ShaunC

April 27th, 2011
10:58 pm

Huge Braves fan. Like the direction of our pitching staff has moved over the past few years. Hate to see this.

He really should lose his job. Was he drunk? I have a problem believing he’s comfortable doing this crap around the team.

Braves 2011

April 27th, 2011
10:58 pm

I agree with Braves fan in Savannah.
Why did these fans get under his skin when so many thousands of times hecklers had failed to?

MurphHOF

April 27th, 2011
10:58 pm

who really cares… grow up people

H Ford

April 27th, 2011
10:59 pm

Enter your comments here

Braves 2011

April 27th, 2011
11:00 pm

Gloria Allcash.
Good one Texas Rose.

what a joke

April 27th, 2011
11:00 pm

emf…. how the blank do you know what Leo and Braves will do?

all for one.....

April 27th, 2011
11:02 pm

Roger once a Brave always a Brave. Don’t let the Devil perverts get you down.

H Ford

April 27th, 2011
11:02 pm

(Other than being a loud-mouth, obnoxious friend of the no talented Nancy Grace, what is Gloria Allred “famous” for?)

Oh, and nothing was mentioned in this story as to why this is being classified as slur against gays…. I think the Commissioner has probably already made up his mind, and Mr. McDowell will be removed from on field duties, and public contact, if not outright fired, within 10 days.

Observer

April 27th, 2011
11:07 pm

The Braves would be wise to act swift and part ways with him. The Braves need to protect their identity. They have done well to establish their organization as nothing but a class act. Failing to act will only blemish their standing.

gumbylovespokey

April 27th, 2011
11:08 pm

Agree rmf, I get uncomfortable listening to Leo on the radio, his language and attitude frequently seem inappropriate to me and I think the Braves were glad to be rid of him because of these same type of issues. My brother once heard him dress down Jason Schmidt with language that would have made a sailor blush within listening distance of everyone nearby at the ballpark. These people need to behave professionally, I was very glad to see the Braves introduce a program this year to train these highly paid individuals how to do so with the media and in public. These folks having Gloria Allred present so quickly is highly suspicious; certainly not how the “average” fan would have reacted to this and I certainly wouldn’t be grandstanding my children for a PR photo op afterward. Roger McDowell may very well need disciplining or dismissal, but the Braves need to do some due diligence first and conduct their own investigation of whether this was a setup or another shakedown. Remember certain groups a few years ago didn’t consider Andruw Jones or other players from the Carribean to be reqresentative of their “under represented” group in MLB and attempted to embark on a shakedown here in Atlanta with John Schuerholtz a few years ago.

fred

April 27th, 2011
11:10 pm

Blemish their standing with who…gays?

Dayman

April 27th, 2011
11:10 pm

Baseball’s history is riddled with incidents 10x worse than this, he should not lose his job, I mean it was stupid, but come on. Those calling for his job should just move to San Francisco and be Giant fans.

zongwriter

April 27th, 2011
11:10 pm

He should be fired. Period.

Wes Covington

April 27th, 2011
11:11 pm

I believe he should be fired………………

Reality

April 27th, 2011
11:11 pm

Give the man a break. Otherwise lets have equal justice. Go find all the heckling fans and give
them the same punishment you give Roger.

PMC

April 27th, 2011
11:13 pm

Do we know what the fans said to Roger yet? Can we ban them for life?

admiral

April 27th, 2011
11:14 pm

No joke, I’m equally appalled (for different reasons) by the gay slurs as I am by the “kids don’t belong” line.

The gay slurs are reprehensible. The kids line is just sad, and says a lot about the state of baseball in America right now and moving forward.

coldcocky

April 27th, 2011
11:15 pm

When he is fired later this week, it will primarily be made for the threats he made…if he indeed made them.

Kenshin Kawakimi

April 27th, 2011
11:15 pm

Great pitching coach, really? lol
Facts, Facts, Facts, what are the facts. I am a born again christian, can i still say that? But i think if these actions are true then ol rodger dodger needs to get out of dodge. No one should represent themselves this way no matter their views on the homosexual life.

fred

April 27th, 2011
11:16 pm

Yes fire Roger and you will have fans in every park giving players hell to get them fire and sue for $$ over nothing..what a sick country.

jerry

April 27th, 2011
11:17 pm

As the father of a daughter, I would be the one wielding the baseball bat against that foul mouthed scum bag.

Danny Turner

April 27th, 2011
11:17 pm

Is it just me or does Gloria Allred remind you of Don King standing with her clients?

relocated dawg

April 27th, 2011
11:17 pm

I see nothing wrong with what was said,and I think it was stupid for Kobe to have to say i am sorry and pay a fine.People who are this sensitive needs to buck up and grow a pair, what has happened to America.

Hire Leo

April 27th, 2011
11:18 pm

After Roger gets fired, please hire Leo so I can start listening to 680 and Braves radio again after he’s gone!

Dayman

April 27th, 2011
11:18 pm

Okay “Braves fans,” lets fire Roger who has done a great job with this staff over the past few years and risk blowing a very promising season over something that will be forgotten in two weeks. That sounds like a good idea I hope all of you feel really moral when you’re not watching the Braves in October.

jerry

April 27th, 2011
11:19 pm

Give that dirt bag a medal. The nerve of little girls going to a baseball game.

MightyQuinn

April 27th, 2011
11:20 pm

Fined and suspended, I imagine. And for the record, I am not knowingly related to the family! Us Quinns are southerners, no Californians we.

jerry

April 27th, 2011
11:23 pm

Pitching coach is a fairly high profile position. Too high for one that has such a low regard for the fans to remain on the team.

gumbylovespokey

April 27th, 2011
11:24 pm

Agree with rmf. I doubt the Braves will bring back Leo Mazzone for the same type of reasons. Frankly I find his language and attitude on the radio often inappropriate. My brother once heard him dress down Jason Schmidt with language that would have made a sailor blush in listening distance of everyone near the bullpen at the ballpark. I was glad to see the Braves introduce a program this year to train these highly paid individuals representing their organization how to conduct themselves with the media and in public. This has been sorely needed in MLB for some time and reflects organizational common sense.
Having Gloria Allred instantly out front is highly suspicious and certainly not how the “average” fan would have reacted. I also would certainly not have been parading my children in front of the media for PR photo ops. Roger McDowell may well need to be disciplined or dismissed but the Braves need to do their due diligence on this and investigate to be sure this was not a setup or shakedown. Remember the little boy in the balloon? Remember a few years ago a certain group that does not even consider Andruw Jones and other similar players from the Caribbean to be part of their “under represented” group attempted to begin a shakedown with John Schuerholz and the Braves.

RosGator

April 27th, 2011
11:26 pm

If allegations are true, particularly the comment regarding children, he’s got to go. He has been around long enought to know heckling byy fans is part of the deal. The mgt has to be held to higher standared than players and he’s got have repsect of players. Apology won’t cut it/

Luv 2 Hate Me

April 27th, 2011
11:26 pm

Theres 2 sides 2 every story and I bet he was one of the fans heckling. Last what makes this guy so damn special out of the entire crowd. Just another buster looking for a pay out.

what a joke

April 27th, 2011
11:28 pm

way to go Judge Jerry…..fans? what kind of fans, the ones that were drunk giving Roger hell are the non-drinking fans..who watch the game and don’t heckle the players. This family should have stayed out of it.

John

April 27th, 2011
11:28 pm

Bring back Leo!

Brave 1

April 27th, 2011
11:29 pm

Is it me or is Leo warming up in the bull pen?

Time

April 27th, 2011
11:29 pm

I’d bet that some of these “Braves fans” aren’t really Braves fans but people with a obvious PC agenda.

So what, let’s stop the world for the freaking drama queens who can’t keep their sexual perversions in the bedroom where it belongs. Sleep with who you want to, I could care less. But quit acting like you’re the only people in the world who have problems, or ever get made fun of. IN FACT, I’m pretty sure that if I were to hang out with a bunch of gay folks, I’d hear plenty of straight slurs and jokes.

Of course, I’m sure to the people all angry about this that’s ok. It’s ok for them to slur straights, but just don’t do it to them. Same old leftist double standards and hypocrisy at work as always.

Bill

April 27th, 2011
11:32 pm

anybody in Cobb Co right now know anything about storm in that area.

JEB

April 27th, 2011
11:34 pm

Hold the presses!
I know Roger McD apologized, BUT… something must have been said to have riled him up, and we don’t KNOW what he really said (no video proof, no recordings presented – yet)!
Right now it is “they said – he said”!
I won’t judge this (neither should any of us) until all of the evidence comes in.
Right now Roger has said he said something (though we do not know what that is) and he should have been more professional and walked away.
The other side is making accusations with no proof presented yet.
Let’s cool it awhile – we do not need this distraction – especially if most of this is not true (let’s hope it is not for Roger’s sake!)

Braves Fan Since "80

April 27th, 2011
11:34 pm

WOW never would have guessed Roger would be negative public situation…. we all have moments but we all have a responsibility…. I hope the facts are laid out and the appropriate steps taken…….. Not only with Roger but inappropriate fan behavior as well when it exists…

RosGator

April 27th, 2011
11:34 pm

I understand Brooks Conrad took the fans heckling an dhe didn’t loose it and he’s much younger than McDowell at 50 who should have maturiity to ignore it. Sad to say it confirms my fear many of these guys like RM have been prima donna’s their entire careers. This could me a “red flag” as to the managerial style of Freddie, i cannot inmagine this under Bobby. This has nothing to due with political correctness and everything to do with the fans. Giveme a break verbally abusing two little girls with their mom and dad.
RM gotta go if allegations are true.

Sense of humor?

April 27th, 2011
11:37 pm

Free Roger! That was hilarious. If you don’t like it then don’t go to the baseball field. I’m sick of the political correctness. Roger doesn’t hate gay people or kids. Calm down and laugh at it. The gesture with the baseball bat was awesome.

PC Forever

April 27th, 2011
11:37 pm

spot on J C B III,

Disappointed in many comments on here and proves just because we pull for the same school, all of us are not very fair or intelligent.

This man has been around baseball a long time. What provoked him? What do we know was said by others? Fans can be brutal and I am sure he has heard terrible things about his manhood, his family, etc.

I may be very disappointed in his comments, but what was actualy said and what was alleged may be quite different. The context is also very important. How many of our bloggers have never made a statement in anger that they wish they could take back? How many of us sit with family at public events and hear words that we would rather not hear? (Usually from fans).

I cannot believe we are talking about this issue in this way. This is a microcosm of what is wrong with this country. We are ruining it by being so politically correct even in the face of ignoring common sense. This country has been hamstrung by the likes of Gloria Allred and her predecessors. Our society has embraced thugs (and Roger is NOT in that category) and shown disrespect for each other. It has allowed any type of verbage from certain segments of our society and at the same time restricts other segments of our society from saying anything at all!

We should all try to be a little kinder to each other, use common sense, quit following a mob mentality with the PC garbage, hoot down the likes of Gloria Allred, and move on.

Tim

April 27th, 2011
11:37 pm

Before everyone starts jumping to conclusions, I think some investigating needs to be done. The media does a great job of distorting things. Just look at General McChrystal. Rolling Stones blames him for all sorts of things, he’s demoted, and then they find out most of the stuff in the article wasn’t true.
If Roger did in fact do it, then he should be gone, but the Braves shouldn’t jump to conclusions in a time where people will say anything to get what they want.

fred

April 27th, 2011
11:39 pm

Red flag, prima donna, mgr style, holy Mary… RosGator sounds like the PC left!

di

April 27th, 2011
11:40 pm

It’s always gray folks, not black and white. He was probably kidding around with a group of proud gay guys who were provoking him….and responded inappropriately in a joking manner…and the family man took offense as he should…and Roger didn’t handle it appropriately once he realized he offended someone. Move on….

acbwcmm

April 27th, 2011
11:40 pm

howme714 – I think you misunderstood what was actually said about “if it were racial”.

Plane Driver – I’d be willing to bet money that you are a heterosexual, white guy. You are obviously clueless. Homosexuals are the protected ones??? Get real.

Firstly, this is not about “free speech”. He was at his place of employment and that means that he should conduct himself in a certain way. If he did not, then there should be given some sort of consequence for that.

Secondly, I hope that this isn’t true, as a lesbian, as a Braves ticket holder, and as a fan of baseball. I honestly can’t say that I would be surprised, but I would be deeply disappointed.

Lastly, I don’t think we should all call for his job so fast. There is no “proof”, yet. Also, I’m a believer in giving people second chances. If he were fined, given additional training, and apologized sincerely people would move on. Unfortunately, the apology he has issued so far is not really an apology at all.

Walt

April 27th, 2011
11:45 pm

Allred is involved??? Let’s get the facts before we condemn this guy.Why don’t any black guys get brought up on racism charges?? Something is very fishy here….

Gil in Mechanicsville

April 27th, 2011
11:46 pm

Braves Fan in Alaska Your comments showed your bias up front.

Unfortunately, all of this is a distraction that is not needed. Within a few days, the truth will be a moot point as the media whore on both sides will try this case via press conference. Likely, no apology will be sufficient for the offended and no apology will undo the incident if it prove to be true.

It is a shame that people can have their livelihood, and their legacy destroyed in a instant of poor judgement. Rightly or wrongly, McDowell is likely done as the pitching coach for the Atlanta Braves. The damage to his reputation has already been done.

TrishaDishaWarEagle

April 27th, 2011
11:49 pm

So now gays are utterly protected by law from being offended. screw that..nobody has a right not to be offended. Offending the thin skinned is one of life’s greatest pleasures.

Largo

April 27th, 2011
11:49 pm

Gays, minors, illegals can say anything they choose about anyone or to anyone. Straight white people are not allowed such freedom. I’m in your corner, Roger!

msgadawg

April 28th, 2011
11:02 am

BRING BACK LEO!!! The comments about children at the ballpark make me sick. Some of my favorite memories were taking my children to Braves games when they were young. He has got to go!!

Vaughn

April 28th, 2011
11:03 am

Something smells about the story though – so this happened because the family was asking for balls during batting practice? I’ve never heard of McDowell being known for being a complete psycho for his entire career, so until I know the other side of the story, this just doesn’t sound legit.

If the allegations are true (especially the alleged “how much are your teeth worth” comment), then yeah, he’s got to be let go.

Jerry Pritikin aka The Bleacher Preacher

April 28th, 2011
11:03 am

Enter your comments here
I have known Roger McDowell for 25 years. He is a fan favorite with the fable “Bleacher Bums” of the friendly confines of Chicago’s Wrigley Field. He has apologized for his bad judgment. I urge everyone to accept his apology. I recommend that MLB have Roger Mc Dowell make a contribution to the S.F. Harvey Milk Academy and Atlanta’s Gay Community Center. Keep in mind, this was a one time case of bad judgment in his MLB career, and he apologized. If I did not know Roger, I would be the first in line to protest, as I did to MLB Baseball when 2 MLB players made anti-gay remarks. However there is a difference because Julian Taverez and Jim Rocker made poor judgment in their comments based on prejudice.

I have been involved in the Gay Rights Movement for 40 years, and have witnessed bad judgment made by gays toward gays. We all make mistakes. In my 25 years of roaming
the bleachers in Wrigley, Roger Mc Dowell has been one of, if not the best player who entertained the fans prior to the game. I never witnessed any poor judgment by him during that time.

I urge M.L.B. to accept his apology for his one time moment of stupidity.

Jerry Pritikin aka The Bleacher Preacher

reality check

April 28th, 2011
11:07 am

One of the bed rocks of America…. Free Speech isn’t so free any more. Wait until the real facts come out please.

bulldog bubba

April 28th, 2011
11:16 am

It is sad to say but this is their “fifteen minutes of fame.They will hit all the talk shows,maybe even a book deal!!!I do not condone bad behavior from a coach who has had a long career and should know better.This “family” is all about the financial aspect of this situation.Tell them to go fly a kite!

gdawginkalamazoo

April 28th, 2011
11:17 am

What’s the old saying?

Sticks and stones may break my bones but words will…..pay for my kids college education, vacation cottage and new cars, ka-ching.

Paul Hewitt

April 28th, 2011
11:18 am

Watch out Roger—when M.B. of the ajc writes about you and doesn’t say 100% positive things (like any good Atlanta reporter should)–your history.

Wiggins

April 28th, 2011
11:20 am

McD just happens tho be a member of the only remaining group that … Oh, well just glad I’m not having to dodge all these rocks being thrown by people living in glass houses.

pittman

April 28th, 2011
11:21 am

my take on the situation three mid 20s dudes came up (probably looking “flamboyant”) and were messing with roger all in good fun probably had been drinking some(the guys) before and roger was making some funny while inappropriate comment and some “overprotective dad” that probobly goes to baseball games by himself with a 3:16 sign when his family doesnt come and yelled theres kids around and mcdowell said a joke about going all roid rage on him like it was 2003

pittman

April 28th, 2011
11:22 am

2003….bonds….broke hanks record….

SawThat1nce

April 28th, 2011
11:25 am

Did anyone see the TMZ clip with Gloria A. and the family. Gloria describes the act as lewd, and then proceeds to demonstrate the offense behavior, by reinacting it with the Dad, right there with the daughters present.

Gordon

April 28th, 2011
11:27 am

What McDowell did was wrong, period. But it makes me sick to look at that picture and see that guy acting like he has been injured in some way. They want some money, period.

BraveMan

April 28th, 2011
11:27 am

It is impossible to police an individual’s personal opinions, no matter how reprehensible, but if reports are true as to McDowell’s behavior in front of families and children, it cannot be tolerated by the Braves as his employer. If it’s true, he should go.

pittman

April 28th, 2011
11:28 am

ps i want greg maddux for pitching coach dude is the smartest baseball player ever. i remember hearing two stories of him.First one was he was pitching for us one game and i think someone on the phillies was up glanville or something and he told Giles to move three steps to first and on the next pitch a weak line drive landed in his glove like he was smalls with his eyes closed. The other story was when he went back to the cubs and and was resting one game and told the starting pitcher how to pitch(i dont rememeber who it was but i do remember the pitcher was not very good) for the inning and the guy recorded three outs in 5 pitches with nothing getting out the infield and the pitcher afterwards said that he was amazed that maddux knew his pitches better than him

screwbaseball

April 28th, 2011
11:28 am

That is not a “pathetic” family. The guy is good as any of you jerks talking about him and his family is good as well. He doesn’t “need” money. He is a hard ass worker and student as well. Fits more into a 24 hour day than most fit into a 3 day week. Baseball is a pathetic sport and a former national past time. Most people do not care anymore about it.

SawThat1nce

April 28th, 2011
11:30 am

The bottom line for MLB, is that you don’t threaten paying customers with phyical violence, and tell them that they don’t belong in your buisness establishment.

harvey milked

April 28th, 2011
11:32 am

Nothing could possibly be as reprehensible as willingly having your picture taken with Gloria Allred.

SawThat1nce

April 28th, 2011
11:34 am

If they release McD, the Braves would be extremely lucky to get Greg Maddux for a pitching coach.
I don’t even think that Maddux would consider it. Glavine would be good also.

jeff

April 28th, 2011
11:44 am

what a pile— its words— anytime gloria allredd is involved you have to suspect– what a hyper sensitive bunch— what kind of scum would parade their kids out there—- oh — i forgot– anything to get a settlement–

datominator

April 28th, 2011
11:44 am

People are quick to call for his ouster – his conduct as portrayed by Gloria Allred and the fans who are complaining certainly sounds reprehensible, but how about we wait until he is able to give his side of the story before we decide he needs to go? And, even at that point, is there no room for redemption? What about probation and the opportunity to redeem himself – isn’t this the country of second chances?

jeff

April 28th, 2011
11:45 am

your an idiot screwball——-

ATL Sports Fan

April 28th, 2011
11:45 am

I want to know what was said to provoke McDowell. Funny to see the gentlemen said to watch his language. Have any of you ever sat close enough to the dugout? Being a former minor league baseball player, I can speak from expierence that fans do go a little too far with their heckling. The cursing of players is part of it. If you don’t want to hear it sit some where else.

ATL Sports Fan

April 28th, 2011
11:46 am

screwbaseball, you care enough about it to read the article and post something about it. People today are to sensative.

Joe T

April 28th, 2011
11:48 am

What is your problem Bradley! Who do you think you are? You become judge and jury over a situation like this that you were not present at and know only one side of the story! You call yourself a journalist? At least give Roger a chance to speak. People have no idea what comes out of the mouths of fans at professional ball games. The ability by pro athletes to let these verbal assaults go on a nightly basis is amazing to me. You have no idea what was said to Roger to make him go off. But that doesnt seem to matter to you. He is guilty by your estimation. How about being fair here. Didnt they teach you that in journalism school? Ridiculous article!

PIBrave

April 28th, 2011
11:51 am

Did you guys see the video? See how the twin on the left was trying hard not to laugh? I don’t think they were “traumatized” with that Roger “allegedly” said.

Anyway, want to hear Roger’s side as well..

acbwcmm

April 28th, 2011
11:56 am

homophobe – 99% of people aren’t even straight, so you that doesn’t make sense. Also, this is really about his gestures and words to this straight, white family. I’m not sure why the media is trying to portray it as a “gay slur’ issue.

Gen Neyland

April 28th, 2011
12:02 pm

The photo shot of Gloria ‘The Ambulance Chaser’ Allred with the stricken family looks more a scripted photograph since when Ms Allred touted the Women of Woods before the camera. It’s all about the buck else R. McD’s apology should suffice.

put me in coach

April 28th, 2011
12:11 pm

Really? Anti-gay slur is not the same as an anti-racial slur. These people need to get a life. What gives a fan the right to heckle the players/coaches while at the ball park? Fans can do this because they buy a ticket? Then when a player/coach responds they want to call “FOUL”. This is bull, if they fire Roger over this I will never watch another Braves game.

sogadog

April 28th, 2011
12:12 pm

Gloria Allred is a publicity hound and you cant believe any of her BS. She is the worst sort of attorney. She promotes herself at her client’s expense.

I believe the media, with Ms. Allred’s prodding, makes this a much bigger deal than it is. The guy was wrong to say the things he said, he should be punished, (not fired) and that should be the end of it. Ms Allred can go jump in a lake.

cantondawg

April 28th, 2011
12:14 pm

Completely unprofessional. I cannot believe that someone that’s been around the game as long as Mcdowell is not used to heckling. He should act like a professional and ignore it regardless of what is said. I don’t think he should be fired but at least he should be fined.

Also, it’s obvious that it’s a publicity stunt by Gloria Allred and no way would i pay the family.

Hayseed Dixie

April 28th, 2011
12:16 pm

The media will latch onto the “homophobic” comments, whatever the hell that means.

But the real issue is that McDowell was mouthing off to some Dad because he said “Hey man, there are kids here.” Then he threatened them with a bat.

Sorry, but if that’s true, McDowell should be fired, no questions asked.

jeffrey d

April 28th, 2011
12:16 pm

First of all, I’d really like to hear the WHOLE story. McDowell’s been in professional baseball – and opposing fans – for almost 30 years. Now all of a sudden he turns into a heartless and child-hating beast? Something doesn’t add up.

Second, I think the gay slurs is just a case of boys being boys. I hear guys saying it everywhere.

Fans: Hey McDowell, you STINK!
McDowell: Oh yeah? You guys are SO gay!

This is something I think should not be taken out of context.

gdawginkalamazoo

April 28th, 2011
12:17 pm

From that photo it looks like McDowell also ran over their dog on the way out of the stadium.

jeffrey d

April 28th, 2011
12:20 pm

And please, that picture is ridiculous. It looks like McDowell mutilated the family dog in front of the girls, then ran over their grandma.

If I held a press conference every time I heard a gay slur or the F word at a baseball game, well….I’d be having a lot of press conferences.

If it’s true, I’m not condoning Roger’s behavior. I just think there’s a lot more to the story.

Sven Ottke

April 28th, 2011
12:20 pm

Love the picture prop. Gloria is a joke and you people condemning him for “what he said,” have no clue what he said. Let the Braves handle it the way they want to.

Hayseed Dixie

April 28th, 2011
12:21 pm

And while it’s true that San Franscisco fans have one of the biggest karmic debts in sports history for being the most P.C. city in the freakin’ country YET cheering for Barry Bonds (what a farce)…

…McDowell should handle hecklers like a man.

Yeah, that whole “ignore them” thing your parents told you is a pain in the butt sometimes, but if you’re not possessed of a Mark Twain-class wit: it’s the only thing that works.

Escaped from Email Purgatory

April 28th, 2011
12:21 pm

Shame on Roger McDowell.

The bullpen ain’t an extension of the locker room. And a representative of MLB and the Atlanta Braves ought not be exchanging vulgarities with paying customers in the presence of their minor children.

Having said that, pardon my cynicism about this incident. Lets start with the meticulously staged photo atop this blog – Gloria Allred and the injured parties. Love the prayerful pose of the daughter on the right, by the way.

Allred is the instant advocate of every victim of so much as a mosquito bite inflicted by political incorrectness. Notable former clients include OctoMom and the bimbo who was schtupping Scott Petersen when he murdered his wife, Lacy.

And forgive me, but if these folks are residents of SF, they probably see more debauchery on a Wednesday afternoon than I can find surfing porn sites on the internet 24/7 for a month of Sundays.

Shoot-fire, San Francisco has a Lesbian, Gay Bisexual Transgendered Mardi Gras on a weekly basis. Not to mention the passel of clothes-optional public events (triathons, bike races, car washes, etc) of which San Franciscans are so enamored.

It seems to me, that unless these folks are from Barstow, I’d expect they’ve probably become quite jaded by it all.

It would be nice to think this incident can be resolved without anybody losing their job (McDowell) or suffering permanent damage from trauma suffered by this heinous incident (the family).

Let’s hope a chastened McDowell can get back to coaching Braves pitchers and mom, dad and the kids can get on with their lives no worse for the wear.

No doubt the girls are looking forward to watching Lady GaGa’s latest vid on MTV.

Cynic

April 28th, 2011
12:23 pm

This in no way represents the Braves organization and the conduct we expects of our employees? An organization that daily denigrates a whole race of people with a meaningless chant and a ridiculous tomahawk chop? Turner Field daily hosts an orgy of racism and insensitivity and you call it good clean fun. Why wouldn’t your ball players act like John Rocker and McDowell? Oddly, I find myself supporting Mc Dowell. The Braves are hypocrites if they don’t. My opinion, sports fans!

jeffrey d

April 28th, 2011
12:24 pm

And that photo is ridiculous. From the look of them, it looks like McDowell mutilated the family dog in front of the girls, then ran over their grandma. Seriously….was this really a matter to call a press conference and bring your whole family, and then look as somber as they are? If I threw a press conference every time I heard a gay slur or the F word at a baseball game, then I’d be throwing a bunch of press conferences.

And if true, I’m not condoning Roger’s behavior. I just think there’s a lot more to the story than buddy minding his own business, then Roger to go on an expletive laden tirade, followed by threatening him with a bat.

Happy to stay at home...

April 28th, 2011
12:24 pm

I don’t care what he said, did, thought, etc. I’m not taking my $200 to the park to watch a bunch on nonsense anyway. Talk about sticking your foot in your mouth, talk about stupidity, talk about PR problems for “America’s Past-time”, good bye Roger.

SawThat1nce

April 28th, 2011
12:24 pm

Watch the TMZ clip of Allred and the family, it’s at Yahoo Sport – MLB.

vafalconfan

April 28th, 2011
12:24 pm

Calling yourself “gay” and being born black or a minirity is NOT THE SAME THING! What kind of society have we become?..If you’re a man and you want to have intercourse with another man that does not give you rights to push your peverse lifestyle on anyone else. Only in Obama’s liberal America could this be happening. It’s shameful..you can fine a player or coach for this, but to fire this man?..come on!

Kathy

April 28th, 2011
12:24 pm

I think Huh??? hit it on the head, look at the staging going on in the picture of the family – bat on the table, little girl praying, Allred with a solemn “tsk tsk” look on her face. They’re probably just looking for a payday and hoping the Braves will settle out of court.

Maekchu

April 28th, 2011
12:25 pm

Something is fishy here. Who heckles a player or coach at a ballgame and then goes out and hires a big wig attorney in hopes of a payday? Sure, McDowell probably crossed the line in his response, but why isn’t anyone digging into this fishy family here? Only in America can someone get paid for spilling McDonald’s coffee on themselves or having a baseball coach that you provoked insult you. It’s ridiculous.

TU87

April 28th, 2011
12:27 pm

Roger – next time just make anti-christian comments and you won’t have to apologize.

Choppinmama

April 28th, 2011
12:32 pm

What is Allred doing in this scenario? Is she ready to sue McD for “assault on 9 yr old’s eardrums?”

The family should have gone to security, then made their complaint to Braves mgmt. No, now they have turned their family and more importantly, their young children, ubri bigger targets of hate speech and negative publicity. Good parenting decisions, Mr. and Mrs. Quinn.

MitchC

April 28th, 2011
12:32 pm

Mark, I see three problems here.

Problem one: The anti gay slur.. which is enough for serious disciplinary action right away. Behavior such as that shouldnt be tolerated in today’s world.

Problem two: The threatening of the fan. If Mcdowell did that in any other situation, say.. a social situation, on the street.. or working in an office.. he would likely be suspended or fired, and arrested for assault, and threats.

Problem three: That it took place in front of children. Many fans develop a love of the game from being exposed to it at the ballpark at a young age. In cant be controlled, if, say. a player curses out an ump during an on field argument.. but.. to do so directly at fans.. is inexcusable.

In reality, Mcdowell probably should lose his job. In any other work situation, he would have been gone already.

What else can really happen other than that? The Braves cant function without a pitching coach for a long period of time. What good would., say.. a 15 day suspension do? You cant suspend him for the rest of the season.. because, if you do that, you might as well fire him.

Analyzing all the facts, I would say he should probably be fired. My guess is that some severe action will be taken by Selig, the team.. or both.. but.. anything short of a firing.. would probably create backlash for the team.

Michael

April 28th, 2011
12:40 pm

Homophobia (a misnomer to begin with, this is not a “fear” which is what a phobia is) is not illegal. It’s not against the law to not like gays, or heteros for that matter. It’s not against the law to be racist — everyone maintains pre-disposed notions. What IS against the law, is threatening a person. If McDowell did that, he’s toast and deserves to be. But, it’s not unlawful or a firible offense to like or dislike anybody or their lifestyle. If this is about sensitivity to sexual preference sub-groups — it has no merit. If it is about threatening people with violence, then it is heinous.

Coach13

April 28th, 2011
12:42 pm

He’s done. Just plain stupid. I like the photo of the girl on the right with her hands up like she’s praying, nice touch.

I don’t condone what gays do but that doesn’t mean I’m going to make inappropriate gestures with a bat and yell slurs at them.

The only thing I’m confused about is what is this guy suing for? Because he was yelled at at a game?? Seriously?? Another man threatens to kick your butt and you sue?? What a pansy. What is the crime that was committed?

LAKE OCONEE DAWG

April 28th, 2011
12:42 pm

Don’t believe all this garbage….This is someone looking to rake in an easy buck….This guy has never done anything but be an outstanding coach, lets don’t throw him under the bus without finding out exactly what he said…..

RockyMtn Bravo

April 28th, 2011
12:43 pm

He who has never said something stupid or dumb please cast the first stone. Bottom line is this is some liberal west coast family looking to make a quick buck and get their 15 minutes of fame. Until the full story has put out there don’t be too quick to judge. Anyways what about freedom of speech???

wayn-o

April 28th, 2011
12:44 pm

ok first, that is very a stupid decision by McDowell, yes he should be punished. But in general terms, the games are not a place for kids, too many drunk angry fans, (not to mention cramped seats, insane humidity, over-priced food and absurd traffic that makes any saint pop off some profanity). And it really is a double standard because the all the fans can say what they want to the players, coaches & umpires, but heaven forbid they say something back. I’m not taking McDowells side, he’s a jerk. But come on with the P.C. bull. I thought this was America. What happened to freedom of speech?

Joseph

April 28th, 2011
12:47 pm

If McDowell is held responsible for this and dismissed from the Braves’ dugout. Then, the heckling fans should be held responsible for their heckling and be banned from attending MLB games.

artesian jacket

April 28th, 2011
12:49 pm

Would Mark’s sense of outrage be so acute, if it were anti Christian slurs? What if he had called these people “cracker rednecks”. Somehow, I doubt it.

Sid

April 28th, 2011
12:49 pm

Frankly, not enough info to weigh in at all. Hecklers are kind of like all those trolls on the blogs, you just have to ignore them.

Hey Marcel

April 28th, 2011
12:50 pm

Not enough info to weigh in at all.

Whitewater

April 28th, 2011
12:50 pm

Not only did he make crude and suggestive anti-gay comments; he threatened to bust out a mans teeth with a baseball bat in front of the mans wife and two young daughters. What about him saying children don’t belong at the “@#$^@” ballpark? Maybe they don’t belong at Dodger stadium with the thugs out to beat people up but they sure as hell belong at Pac Bell Park! I’d venture to say that hot head homophobe angry coaches don’t belong at the ball park. What a jerk.

SawThat1nce

April 28th, 2011
12:51 pm

“the games are not a place for kids”????????
Are you kidding?

Najeh Davenpoop

April 28th, 2011
12:52 pm

I bet it was actually Keith Hernandez who made those comments.

Fab Five Fredi

April 28th, 2011
12:55 pm

Give me a break!!! This family lost ALL credibility once they retained the attention *hore known as Gloria Allred. Is this guy unemployed or underemployed. This is a money grab. Sorry that Coach McDowell so scarred your family. I can tell that he has inflicted permanent damage..What a WANKER..Roger had acknowledged that he made inappropriate statements, but, that does not warrant his termination. Unless there is a repeated pattern of behavior, then this issue can be resolved without termination. If this had occurred at home vs on the road, then there would be more pressure on the Braves to terminate Roger.

Hey Marcel

April 28th, 2011
12:59 pm

Escaped from Email Purgatory

April 28th, 2011
12:21 pm
**********************************

What’s Roger doing in the bullpen?

Hey Marcel

April 28th, 2011
1:00 pm

Must of been something I ate………………lol…………………..

Mitchell

April 28th, 2011
1:05 pm

These allegations are worse: At best they involve unprofessional behavior toward paying customers, and at worst they leave this organization open to the charge that its has a homophobe wearing its uniform.

You know, I could be wrong but I’d be willing to bet the organization has more than one homophobe “wearing its uniform.” And not just our organization.

It’s professional sports. I think you would have a hard time finding somebody in that dugout who would have taken a strong stance against what he is alleged to have said.

I’m not saying Leo Mazzone is intolerant of gays or anybody but whoever it is that replaces McDowell, if he gets fired, is probably of a similar mind.

That said, bring on Leo. I mean, after all, once a Met always a Met.

nique

April 28th, 2011
1:05 pm

If allegations are true, that was very stupid of McDowell. Don’t think he should be fired, but I agree with “sensible person” that he should be fined and forced into sensitivity training.

Gwinnett Fred

April 28th, 2011
1:06 pm

First, didn’t they go from allegations to fact when McDowell apologized for saying them???

Second, he should be fired – IMMEDIATELY.

Third, having gone to playoff game #2 in SF last year, several fans were extremely vocal towards me and those wearing Braves gear. Really ticked me off at the time, but if things like this go on, I guess it can be viewed as fans getting their retribution however they can. Thanks Roger!

back atcha

April 28th, 2011
1:10 pm

Is Leo warming up in the bullpen?

dean

April 28th, 2011
1:14 pm

The kid, Taylor, said this (according to the alphabet network): “Children should not have to hear disgusting things they don’t want to hear,” she said.

If that’s the case, kids don’t need to be in a ballpark. If you go to any sporting arena be prepared to be offended by some oaf.

I am NOT justifying what McDowell did, I’m just saying the kid made the case for kids not going to the games. (I’m sure that every daddy wants their kid to be Dallas Cowboy cheerleader or a Laker girl. Uh, no. I enjoy looking at them but I don’t want to see MY daughter half-azzed nekkid.)

Connie Lingous

April 28th, 2011
1:16 pm

Note to Mark Bradley: Mark, you’ve been pretty good lately in limiting your use of the phrase “lest we forget” in your columns. I appreciate it very much. It used to be included one or two times *per column* – now, it’s been reduced to once or twice a week, seemingly.

It’s time to take it a step further – don’t use it at all. Ever again. It serves absolutely no use, from the standpoint of either style or substance. And quite frankly, it introduces a tone to your column that probably neither McDowell nor Rocker would condone (from what is being reported), if you know what I mean.

Please. Just lose it entirely.

Thank you in advance.

Curt

April 28th, 2011
1:17 pm

I can’t believe people are so quick to jump on McDowell. Geeze, just look at the picture at the top of the blog. I don’t see a credible face in the room, and a bat on the table? It’s laughable. The sleezy lawyer obviously told them to all look like they were on the verge of tears and for one of them to pretend to pray, for good effect. It looks more like a publicity stunt. If Roger did say the thing about kids, then shame on him. The homo comment, I have no problem with. I want to hear both sides before deciding anything, but regardless, people are way to sensitive.

TSA Screeners = Uneducated Perverts & Pedophiles

April 28th, 2011
1:17 pm

If Roger McDowell had said this to a male-female, female-female and/or male-male couple at the ballpark who were TSA Screeners, I would have no problem with it.

SawThat1nce

April 28th, 2011
1:18 pm

In my opinion, I believe that the Falcons should draft, to improve their pass rush.

blahblah

April 28th, 2011
1:19 pm

that dude should have manned up and accepted Rogers challenge. Nothing would have happenned–it was just posturing. All of this could have been avoided. Are those little girls going to better off after all this? No.

dean

April 28th, 2011
1:21 pm

“Professional sporting events should be an environment that all fans and families can enjoy, not a place where children are exposed to violent threats and discriminatory language.” — GLAAD president Jarrett Barrio

Well there you go. You reckon he’d take his kid(s), if to the Vet? Or the Black Hole? Ha ha ha ha ha!

Sid

April 28th, 2011
1:22 pm

Found some information on what was said:

“McDowell is accused of yelling “Are you a homo couple or a threesome?” to fans sitting in the left-field bleachers. He’s also accused of simulating a sex act with a bat.”

I think the family merely overheard McDowell bantering with some Ahole fans.

dean

April 28th, 2011
1:23 pm

“Professional sporting events should be an environment that all fans and families can enjoy, not a place where children are exposed to violent threats and discriminatory language.
” — GLAAD president Jarrett Barrio

I guess he’ll never take a kid to any ballpark, arena, or football stadium. He doesn’t understand the reality of what goes on in the stands-between fans.

Unfortunately, I believe Roger is toast.

dean

April 28th, 2011
1:24 pm

dammmmmit. I hate it when I do that. Sorry.

Long-time fan

April 28th, 2011
1:24 pm

This article very carefully avoids the facts and skews the impact of the story. Try reading an article that actually describes what happened.

“A homophobe in a Braves uniform”… AT WORST? (There are likely many — and not just in ATL.) This was not simply “a volley of anti-gay sentiment”. While waving a bat at him, McDowell asked this man how much he thought his teeth were worth. The family had seats on the field. Dad had been asking McDowell to stop his vulgar comments (”Are you guys a homo couple or a threesome?”) and gestures toward other fans, by reminding him that there were kids there.

John Rocker: “one loudmouth venting”? Rocker opened his big racist, xenophobic, homophobic, bigoted mouth on many occasions, shoving his foot into it. Do your research, Bradley. Your objectivity toward this subject is in question.

Initially I was impressed with the comments from Braves fans about McDowell’s inappropriate behavior. As I read on, I see the issue clouded by attitudes about Gloria Allred, saying one group of fans is worse than another (and I wholly disagree about the SF fans), etc.

I think involving Allred was a mistake — she is too much of publicity grabber. However, the family was not asking for compensation for themselves. As of this morning, they were interested in disciplinary action and a fine, not profit.

Guys like McDowell or Rocker can be pigs in their personal lives, but need to keep it private as long as they are in the public arena or the ballpark. Big fine. Suspension.

Gumby

April 28th, 2011
1:27 pm

What a bunch of horse manure. It’s a sport.. not church. I don’t know what the HECKLER said but they got a response!! Just because you buy a ticket doesn’t give a fan the right to be a total jackass to opposing players which I suspect somebody was. If they have to fine Roger (which is still stupid) do it and get on with it. We have games to play and don’t need a distraction from some whiny babies. I guess next they’ll claim Roger needs to show his birth certificate.

the cox man

April 28th, 2011
1:27 pm

the only wrong thing roger did was opening his mouth.he should know rednecks have no rights. but if he said children don t belong in a ballpark then he should be ban from being in any ballpark himself.

pinkygonzales

April 28th, 2011
1:29 pm

legally, any sort of suit that they are trying to come up with is absolutely baseless and will likely be thrown out post haste. But that’s not the point. And it’s not about protected classes, and it’s not about free speech or anything like that. It’s about the fact that no matter how good he is at his job, we can’t have him representing this city and this organization. Also, keeping him on will become a distraction. It was a comment born of ignorance, and there is no legal basis for any money to exchange hands. But if it went down the way it is being reported, he’s done.

59bulldawg

April 28th, 2011
1:31 pm

I don’t think McDowell should be fired either . . . but what he did was extremely stupid! Wonder if this means Camp Leo returns in 2012?

Esteban

April 28th, 2011
1:37 pm

What does Gloria Alred have to do with anything? Why would they hire an attorney? Don’t be surprised if she represents this family and others in a lawsuit against the Braves and MLB. Give me a break.

Uggla's Ugglies

April 28th, 2011
1:37 pm

Fire him? You gotta be kidding me! Talk about over-reactions. I am not condoning gay slurs, but to compare it to a racial slur is silly. He used poor judgment, he didn’t fight a fan. If you don’t want your children to hear language, then don’t take them to the ballpark. Hell, don’t take them to the mall or grocery store, or even watch TV. They are going to hear it no matter what. If McDowell cursed in front of my kids, I wouldn’t be happy b/c I don’t condone the language, but there is such a thing as freedom of speech and I wouldn’t resort to heckling the manager and try to chastise him for using the language.

The Good Doctor

April 28th, 2011
1:38 pm

First, the man and his family were not the ones heckling McDowell. Three other fans did the heckling. McDowell responded to those first three fans with inappropriate words and gestures. The father did not heckle McDowell; he told him to watch his language in front of his daughters. Just about any father (including myself) would do the same. Then McDowell said kids don’t belong at baseball parks (Huh? Didn’t just about all of us begin to love baseball when our parents took us to games as kids?). McDowell then walked towards the father and threatened him with the bat, asking him how much his teeth were worth, which was an explicit threat that he was going to smash the father in the face with the bat. This is a criminal offense under any circumstances in any jurisdiction in America (the threat, not just the action). If these allegations prove to be true (and contrary to what some posters think, eyewitness testimony does qualify as evidence), then McDowell must be fired.

The gay slur and gestures were certainly inappropriate but would probably warrant no more than a suspension on their own. Saying nasty things about families and in front of them is grounds for firing and would be at any business in America. Threatening to smash a man’s teeth out with a baseball bat is a criminal offense and would normally lead to an arrest and probation. Who the father’s attorney is is irrelevant.

For those questioning the issue of free speech, you need to take a course on the constitution. The constitution protects citizens from the government controlling their rights to speak freely. It does not apply to private entities and the guidelines they set for the employees who represent them. The right to free speech means that the government cannot take action against citizens or organizations for criticizing the government or disseminating their opinions. Private corporations can and do expect their employees to conduct themselves to a certain standard, which is perfectly legal. Please learn about your American government before trying to use false patriotism to actually undermine the freedoms that the constitution gives us, one of which is terminating an employee who threatens customers and curses in front of children.

Finally, a few people have suggested that McDowell was justified because their beliefs condemn homosexuality. They are right that in their in their holy book it lists that sexual practice as an abomination. It also lists eating pork, eating shellfish, and wearing different patterns together as abominations of the same order. To those people I ask: Have you ever eaten bacon, a ham sandwich, or had a hot dog at the ballpark? Have you tried shrimp cocktail or crab dip? Have you ever worn solid color pants with a striped or plaid shirt? If you answered ‘yes’ to any of those questions then you have committed a sin that is equivalent to homosexuality according to your book. On the other hand, that same book gives suggestions on how slavery should be properly conducted. In this case I would have to ask, “Who is the one with the moral deficit?” And it’s certainly not the family at the ballpark.

Sid

April 28th, 2011
1:39 pm

I also found this:

Giants fan Justin Quinn, attending the game with his wife and 9-year-old twin daughters, said he asked McDowell to watch his language in the presence of children.

According to Allred, the former New York Mets pitcher told Quinn, “Kids don’t [expletive] belong at the baseball park.”

McDowell, 50, then “picked up his bat and started walking in a threatening manner towards Quinn,” Allred said.

Quinn, 33, said McDowell asked him, “How much are your teeth worth?” The Fresno, Calif., resident said he managed to diffuse further hostilities but was encouraged by other fans who had witnessed the scene to file a report.

I think Quinn see’s dollar signs, that is why Allred is invloved. But look at him in the picture, a girly man………….lol….!!

Ross

April 28th, 2011
1:39 pm

Whatever happened to the good ole days where if you had a problem with someone then you dealt with it like a man. This is nothing more than some guy trying to get money for nothing because someone might have offended his child. Not to mention the fact that he hires an attention bloodhound for his legal counsel. First off you cant prove beyond a reasonable doubt that there were terroristic threats made so that point is moot, and this is America if someone has an opinion then they should be able to state it. Why is it that only certain groups of people get to say what they want with no recourse, but certain people cant.

Matt

April 28th, 2011
1:40 pm

What’s amazing is that this guy will probably lose his job because of the fact he expressed his dislike for another person. Where is it written in society that we must like everyone. Most blacks don’t prefer most whites, most whites don’t prefer most blacks, most straight people don’t prefer most gay people, most gay people don’t prefer most straight people. Most southerners don’t prefer most northerners and vice versa and so on. Hippies and conservatives don’t get along, Orange County surfers (stereotype I know) and Kansas farm boys (stereotype I know) probly don’t prefer eachother.

My point is that people prefer other people that are like them (their “own kind). Would most of you agree?? So what if you don’t like you!! How does me not liking you affect whether or not you sleep at night?!?!? Why do I need a socially acceptable reason to not like you???

If I wanna have sex with a horse i’m not going to scream “you have to be tolerant of my choices because I’m just being me”!!!

Newsflash for everyone else: If you are the minority you aren’t going to be the most popular kid in the room!!! If me and 20 others are the only white people at a Snoop Dog concert we aren’t going to be very popular. If me and my gay lover show up to a sporting event (stereotypically popular to heterosexual men and traditional families) I’m not going to be very popular while i’m there.

Accept that and move on!!!

Hey Marcel

April 28th, 2011
1:41 pm

Nice prop with the baseball bat in the pic.

Hillbilly Deluxe

April 28th, 2011
1:46 pm

Are there any witnesses to this incident?

Uggla's Ugglies

April 28th, 2011
1:48 pm

JR, I disagree. Everyone who works knows the customer isn’t always right. If a fan (customer), said something like I’ve heard from fans (ie I just had relations with your wife, or I’m glad you have a retarded child, or make suggestive comments about something they would do with your young daughter), I highly doubt you or anyone else for that matter would handle the situation like you are in a business by just politely telling the customer to stop talking about that. Most people would react by heckling back. When heckling become personal, they are no longer protected by the “I’m just a fan” excuse and “you can’t say anything back to me b/c I am the ‘customer’”.

Gregor

April 28th, 2011
1:49 pm

I love McDowell and hate to see him go…but realistically, this may be our best chance to get that buffoon Mazzone, his ignorant comments, and his annoying laugh off of the radio in the morning. If I never hear that ignoramous speak again, it’ll be too soon.

Robert 08

April 28th, 2011
1:50 pm

It’s funny that the same people upset over an alleged gay slur are the same people calling McDowell and Braves fans rednecks … pot meet kettle. By the way, I’ve heard some of the nasty things directed at pro athletes, and I’m surprised there are not more incidents like this. I wanna know what was said to McDowell to set him off.

The Good Doctor

April 28th, 2011
1:51 pm

First, the man and his family were not the ones heckling McDowell. Three other fans did the heckling. McDowell responded to those first three fans with inappropriate words and gestures. The father did not heckle McDowell; he told him to watch his language in front of his daughters. Just about any father (including myself) would do the same. Then McDowell said kids don’t belong at baseball parks (Huh? Didn’t just about all of us begin to love baseball when our parents took us to games as kids?). McDowell then walked towards the father and threatened him with the bat, asking him how much his teeth were worth, which was an explicit threat that he was going to smash the father in the face with the bat. This is a criminal offense under any circumstances in any jurisdiction in America (the threat, not just the action). If these allegations prove to be true (and contrary to what some posters think, eyewitness testimony does qualify as evidence), then McDowell must be fired.

The gay slur and gestures were certainly inappropriate but would probably warrant no more than a suspension on their own. Saying nasty things about families and in front of them is grounds for firing and would be at any business in America. Threatening to smash a man’s teeth out with a baseball bat is a criminal offense and would normally lead to an arrest and probation. Who the father’s attorney is is irrelevant.

For those questioning the issue of free speech, you need to take a course on the constitution. The constitution protects citizens from the government controlling their rights to speak freely. It does not apply to private entities and the guidelines they set for the employees who represent them. The right to free speech means that the government cannot take action against citizens or organizations for criticizing the government or disseminating their opinions. Private corporations can and do expect their employees to conduct themselves to a certain standard, which is perfectly legal. Please learn about your American government before trying to use false patriotism to actually undermine the freedoms that the constitution gives us, one of which is terminating an employee who threatens customers and curses in front of children.

Finally, a few people have suggested that McDowell was justified because their beliefs condemn homosexuality. They are right that in their holy book it lists that sexual practice as an abomination. It also lists eating pork, eating shellfish, and wearing different patterns together as abominations of the same order. To those people I ask: Have you ever eaten bacon, a ham sandwich, or had a hot dog at the ballpark? Have you tried shrimp cocktail or crab dip? Have you ever worn solid color pants with a striped or plaid shirt? If you answered ‘yes’ to any of those questions then you have committed a sin that is equivalent to homosexuality according to your book. On the other hand, that same book gives suggestions on how slavery should be properly conducted. In this case I would have to ask, “Who is the one with the moral deficit?” And it’s certainly not the family at the ballpark.

Georgian

April 28th, 2011
1:52 pm

This whole thing is a joke. Lets wait to see the “real” story before we cast judgement. This fan sure did jump to publicize this by hiring lawyer Allred and making his kids puppetts to recite scripted lines.

Furthermore, what he did is not “job losing” worthy. Why he should have held his tongue if he did, this is not that big a deal.

pittman

April 28th, 2011
1:53 pm

by the time i was in 5-6 grade at a private school in a nice neighborhood in a supporting family i was already aware of curse words and how fun they were to type into search engines, that was 15 years ago and nowadays kids are having “sex on the reg by 13 smoking pot on the reg by 13 and basically doing a whole bunch of other fun stuff on the reg”

straitroad

April 28th, 2011
2:01 pm

Bradley,

Don’t be such a wuss. Do you really believe that McDowell said kid’s shouldn’t be at the ballpark? If he admits to it, then I’m wrong. Until then, I doubt he said that. Either way, quit crying about it. We’re a country full of wimps where it’s fashionable to be offended.

JASon

April 28th, 2011
2:02 pm

The culprit in all of this is…America, a dumb country that allows dumb people to succeed in lawsuits like this. Our government is a complete failure, in all respects. I don’t really know why people say the founding fathers were so wise, I mean, look at what their “brilliant” vision has become.

James

April 28th, 2011
2:05 pm

@ John..Great comment it seems that the word thug is only alpplied to a certain group.I really hate Rodger stuck his foot in his mouth and I think he will loose his job.I’m not sure about bringing back Leo.Stevie Wonder could have coached Glavin,Smoltz,Maddux etc.If he’s such a great coach why is he doing radio?

Chris

April 28th, 2011
2:11 pm

School kids are getting bullied and committing suicide becuase of being the brunt of these types of slurs. This man should be let go. Georgia’s reputation of being a leader in the “new south” has really been slipping lately and now this is just a disgrace.

Curious George

April 28th, 2011
2:13 pm

Are the Braves going to follow the example set by the White House and PhotoShop a fake Hawaiian Birth Certificate for Roger McDowell to help pacify and deflect the media attention?

Chris

April 28th, 2011
2:14 pm

Man needs to be fired. School kids are being bulied and committing suicide people like this set the standard that such slurs are ok. Maybe if he has to get out and look for a job and work a 9 to 5, he’ll grow up a little bit.

Dawglasville

April 28th, 2011
2:17 pm

If McDowell did what he is accused of then he should be gone.

Why is it OK to call people rednecks? No other slang is socially acceptable but you can call people rednecks.

Reid in EAV

April 28th, 2011
2:19 pm

Folks, remember that everything we know is coming from that grandstanding, sleazoid, publicity addict Gloria Allred. Your average everyday ambulance chaser exaggerates and makes stuff up, particularly when the media is involved. (I know, because it’s happened to me.)

All we know is that *something* happened, as evidenced by McDowell’s apology. And if he, a pro, responded to heckling in any form, that’s crossing the line. Personally, I really doubt he said kids don’t belong at a ballpark and I also doubt a lot of the rest of it, considering the source.

IF (and that’s a big if) McDowell did exactly as she alleged, then he should be fired. But let’s not take the word of a pretty questionable source, with questionable motivations, before we have an objective reading of the facts, OK?

KB

April 28th, 2011
2:21 pm

McDowell has done a great job. Unfortunately, he made a terrible decision. In any other work-place related scenario, anyone would lose their job for engaging in this kind of behavior. If Mark Bradley printed anti-gay, anti-Jew, anti-Muslim, etc. words in his articles, I believe he would lose his job. It seems likely that we’ve seen the last of Mr. McDowell.

coloradobulldog

April 28th, 2011
2:24 pm

Roger’s a goner. The sooner the Brave’s act, the less of a team distraction. You don’t want to have to be asked about this if your Fredi or one of our pitchers. You want to focus on the job ahead of you. Roger needs to take an unpaid leave of absence. Then promote one of the Minor League coaches like Derek Botelho to finish the season.

Dawglasville

April 28th, 2011
2:27 pm

“Thug” is code. So is “overrated.” If I hear a black person in the media refer to an athlete as being “overrated” I know he is talking about a white player. I do wish the word “thug” was blocked from these blogs but you are living in denial if you think that southern white men have a monopoly on racism.

i would test him for drugs

April 28th, 2011
2:29 pm

only a complete idiot would do what he did under those circumstances…. unless he was under the influence.

he could have been operating with a bad hang over too.

talk about a racist

April 28th, 2011
2:32 pm

curious george i want to see your bc too. for all i know i could be your daddy.

than again i saw what your mama loooks like. only daddy you could have has to be fug uggly.

Furman Bitcher

April 28th, 2011
2:40 pm

It will be a shame if he loses his job over this. It is all a bunch of bunk and I am prety sure the accuser is full of bunk. He may have said a few crude things but i am sure that he didnt say that kids dont belong at the ball park. if Gloria Alred is involved I tend to go with the other side.

Kyle

April 28th, 2011
2:41 pm

John, I agree with you about the warning on that Liberal Allred but we also need a warning on that family photo as well. What a God awful mess.

Marty

April 28th, 2011
2:43 pm

Sounds like ‘roid rage to me. Did he visit Barry Bond’s trainer before the game?

scott case

April 28th, 2011
2:44 pm

Classic Roger – I think it’s funny, but it will probably cost him his job.

UGA75

April 28th, 2011
2:50 pm

The “so called Homo-phobe comments” are not a big deal. I have a grown gay son who hears worse than that daily, and this could have been banter between Roger and the fans he was addressing. The serious part was addressing, then threatening the man with children present. I can not believe Roger said what he was supposed to have said, he is a father too. It seems to me this jerk is trying to make money off a situation that didn’t even involve him. Why did he jump into a interchange between other folks that didn’t concern him at all? I think this is much ado over nothing.

Dr. Kenneth Noisewater

April 28th, 2011
2:58 pm

i’m not buying…just another person looking for some $$. the photo itself speaks volumes…like their lives are ruined by this. give me a break. btw, i still the infamous rocker sports illustrated issue, hilarious!!

Mike

April 28th, 2011
3:02 pm

One needs to look no further than Gloria Allred to realize that this is a steaming pile of poo. I wouldn’t trust anything she or any client of hers said. I think we should find out a little more about this before we rush to judge McDowell.

Broom

April 28th, 2011
3:04 pm

Gloria Allred – The first indication that this is being blown out of proportion. Why is a guy heckling McDowell with his wife a two girls by his side? Something doesn’t quite add up. McDowell is a good guy, let’s get the facts before we judge too hard.

GregD

April 28th, 2011
3:06 pm

I dont get this at all? I saw Roger signing multiple autographs for kids at Turner. What ever they do they shouldnt fire him, look at how good the Brave’s staffs have been under his direction.

Truth in Advertising

April 28th, 2011
3:06 pm

Roger was only saying what the Chick-fil-a Cows are thinking (but unable to spell).

oldbravefan

April 28th, 2011
3:06 pm

Who choreographed that picture???…….the innocent babe with hands held so piously as if she were walking down the aisle for her 1st communion…..give me a break! But, her father has no qualms in putting his daughters in the middle of this whole debacle!

just wondering

April 28th, 2011
3:51 pm

Since when did san francisco become known as a homosexual city ?

Skitty Fritty

April 28th, 2011
3:56 pm

If you are going to heckle someone then you have to be prepared to get heckled back. I think this man & family need to grow up or stop heckling at ball games.

Skitty Fritty

April 28th, 2011
3:56 pm

Just Wondering:
When has San Francisco not been known to be a “Homosexual” city?

DawginLex

April 28th, 2011
3:57 pm

Hire an attorney because he wouldn’t man up after he heckled a Braves coach? He thought the coach wouldn’t respond since he was sitting in the stands, that is what happened.

My wife would laugh at me if I didn’t go whip Mcdowell’s a$$ and that is exactly what I would have done if he had said it to me and my family.

I would have needed an attorney but for a different reason………….

Harry Callahan

April 28th, 2011
3:59 pm

I would have shot him if I were the baseball coach and put a gun in this Punk’s hand !

Maurice

April 28th, 2011
4:11 pm

Enter your comments here

KK

April 28th, 2011
4:22 pm

KK should be the new pitching coach

Maurice

April 28th, 2011
4:28 pm

Where we are different people, we are individuals with different views. Just as human choice/nature allows homosexuals to be individuals, Roger is just as “human” in his views as they are. No person or law can tell a grown man how to feel or behave. It’s his nature to act the way he does. I don’t condone his “public behavior”, but privately, I understand.

Not A Hewitt Fan

April 28th, 2011
4:30 pm

What makes me mad about the whole thing is that McD didnt get his question answered….so was the grp of boys a couple or a threesome? Which was it? Inquiring minds want to know.

Birdman

April 28th, 2011
4:31 pm

The major lapse in judgement does not warrant being fired, but the reality is that this organization will not stand for the public relations hit it will take as this escalates through the ambulance chasing lawyer. And sorry if this sounds like I am not supporting my pitching coach, but if it detracts from the team chemistry and performance, then its lights out for Mr. McDowell. Unfortunately not even if he was provoked is there any defense for it when it gets into the court of public opinion. The Braves are the definition of a “family” organization, but because of this we will get ridiculed more by “family Support” or “Religious Lobbyist” than the cities where you would not dare take your child to see a pro game.

doug

April 28th, 2011
4:41 pm

Forget Mazzone..he is way overrated because he had great pitchers at Atlanta. Check out his time at Baltimore..a complete failure when having to work. p.s. he is awful on the radio!

CaptainMudderland

April 28th, 2011
4:44 pm

I did some research on Ms. Allred and her past legal matters and I have come to the conclusion–Roger M. must be given a second chance and the benefit of any doubt regarding this matter–in my gut, I believe the father in this case is a “horses tuchus,” and the fast track he took to Allred’s den signifies his goal is mullah….just a matter of overkill in my opinion—give Roger a break everyone!

Big Earl

April 28th, 2011
4:45 pm

It just doesn’t pass the smell test:
1)Roger telling this dweeb and his 2 little girls that “kids don’t belong at the ballpark”? C’mon man!
2)Roger threatening this dweeb and his 2 little girls? C’mon man!
3)Roger making homophobic remarks to this dweeb and his 2 little girls? C’mon man!
4)The dweeb hiring the queen lawyer b!tch of all time….oh yea, it’s starting to add up.

And since when is being homophobic a bad thing? Most men don’t like homo’s. Deal with it.

chuck

April 28th, 2011
4:45 pm

I wonder what was said to Roger. It would be interesting to know,. Roger you should have made a slur toward christians and nothing would have been said about it.
Gay. A beautiful word you can’t use anymore, because it is being used to describe homos.

Kyle

April 28th, 2011
4:50 pm

to the person who said gay slurs are the same as racial slurs. homosexuals are not a race. homosexuality is a lifestyle choice. At the same time McDowell shouldn’t lash out at fans.

D Fence

April 28th, 2011
4:53 pm

Reprimanded, sent to training, whatever you need to do. But let him go? Please.

ATL Sports Fan

April 28th, 2011
5:01 pm

As a former minor league player, I will tell you just like I used to tell hecklers that would heckle myself or players. Feel free to heckle all you want, but when you go to far you better expect in return. Also, do you want me to come to your place of business and your office and heckle you all day? Didn’t think so.

I think this guy heckled McDowell and, he got a dose of his own medicine and didn’t like it.

The Truth

April 28th, 2011
5:01 pm

I was there and was about 2 people away from this guy with the complaint. He was actually the one being the instigator. It all started with McDowell and David Ross being heckled by 3 guys in the bleachers because they wouldn’t throw batting practice balls into the stands. McDowell had a bat with him and was hitting the BP balls back to the infield. McDowell then turned to them and asked if they were a “gay couple” or a “threesome”. He then took the bat and made stroking motions with it and thrusting his hips and he asked the 3 hecklers if that was what they were going to do to each other later that night. Everybody in the stands were laughing. Then a few minutes later, this Quinn guy yells “hey coach, my kids want to know what that means”. Then he was saying that McDowell shouldn’t be doing that stuff in front of kids. Then Quinn yelled out “come over here and say it to me”. That is when McDowell started walking over to the wall. Quinn’s family then started to pull at him and told him to stop. Quinn then turned to his wife and said “what’s he going to do? come up here?”. Then McDowell was telling him that if he didn’t want his kids hearing stuff like that hen he should have said something to the 3 hecklers that started the whole thing. Quinn just kept going on and calling McDowell a “joke” because he should know better. McDowell told Quinn that he should tell the 3 hecklers to not say anything if he was so offended and Quinn said back “where are they?” as if he never even heard the heckling himself which would be outrageous since everyone in the bleachers heard the hecklers. Not once did Quinn look like he feared of getting harmed since he was the one that called McDowell over to him plus the fact that Quinn was in the bleachers and at least 5 ft higher than McDowell. Quinn instigated the whole thing. I don’t even remember McDowell saying that kids don’t belong at the ballpark. Maybe he did but that would be pretty stupid to say considering he was probably at the ballpark all the time when he was a kid.

Yes, McDowell was wrong doing that stuff but this guy Quinn is crying wolf about being a victim when he instigated the whole confrontation. And getting Allred to represent him and calling a press conference is a complete joke.

Progressive Humanist

April 28th, 2011
5:02 pm

Kyle, you need to get an education. Homosexuality is not a “lifestyle choice”. You’ve been listening to too many “ignant” preachers.

Progressive Humanist

April 28th, 2011
5:05 pm

ATL minor leaguer (you’ve said you played in the minors like three times today and it’s still not impressive)- You may want to read the actual account. It was other fans who heckled McDowell; the father only asked McDowell not to use profanity in front of his daughters, which any father would do.

Big Jim

April 28th, 2011
5:06 pm

To Hell with Gloria and her buddies.

ab initio

April 28th, 2011
5:21 pm

No one reading this article, or reading and writing these comments, knows definitively, or with a certainty, the events that took place on that day.

Mr. Bradley, wants to be taken seriously. The only thing serious here is the use of words like ‘homophobe’ and ‘intolerance’, and how Bradley abuses them both. Mr. Bradley, I strongly suggest that if you want to report on a story, that you make your personal assumptions as clear and as far away from the facts of a story as you possibly can.

The only thing that I can clearly understand from your article is that anyone who is ‘anti-gay’ is a homophobe, and regardless of whether they object to the homosexual lifestyle and its effects on loved ones or friends matters not; you will attempt to skewer them with your own intolerance. Thusly, you prove Thomas Paine’s statement on tolerance in this situation, even though he was addressing religion, apropos.

You should find a new line of work, sir.

The Truth

April 28th, 2011
5:24 pm

@ ab initio – ummm, I was there and gave an account of what happened.

braveslover

April 28th, 2011
5:25 pm

He’s gotta go. This outburst cannot be tolerated by a professional team. There is zero tolerance at Academy Sports + Outdoors for violence even if just threatened. Academy is a major sponsor of the Braves. Atlanta is the gay/lesbian/transgender capital of the U.S. with more “out” of these folks percentage wise than any other city. Mr. McDowell should resign and let the Braves organization move on. If he doesn’t then the Braves have to fire him. He is not an ambassador for the Braves or MLB. Unbelievable that he made these remarks and threatened someone’s teeth. I guess the man’s teeth are worth Mr. McDowell’s job. He’s gotta go either voluntarily or fired.

MitchC

April 28th, 2011
5:32 pm

Mark, I just read Dave O Brien’s column about the situation last season where another fan said McDowell abused them in a similar manner. I felt strongly that he should be fired before I heard about the incident from last year. Now, considering the fact that two seperate incidents occurred of a similar nature, I’m absolutely sure that the Braves should get rid of him. Apparently, McDowell has serious personality issues. The guy should take time off from baseball positions of any kind (If he could get hired again), and get some counesling. He needs it!

ab initio

April 28th, 2011
5:33 pm

“@ ab initio – ummm, I was there and gave an account of what happened.”

You may have been, but until I see your statement in an official document, or an official press release from MLB and Selig’s office, then you can understand my skepticism, yes?

Patrick

April 28th, 2011
5:37 pm

I’m pretty shocked too the Roger would do that

But I can’t help but not feel sorry for these “fans” they-I’m sure-are not innocent in all this and also went right to a lawyer that seems to have the stature of Johnnie Cochran. Seems fishy

However, there have been many that have lost their job for saying something stupid. Harold Reynolds, Rob Dibble, Steve Lyons, etc…

reality

April 28th, 2011
5:39 pm

Most people would be fired from their jobs for a reaction like this. I love the Braves and McDowell has done a great job. But he needs to go. You only get one strike for something like this.

The Truth

April 28th, 2011
5:44 pm

“You may have been, but until I see your statement in an official document, or an official press release from MLB and Selig’s office, then you can understand my skepticism, yes?”

I guess you don’t believe in God either unless he showed up on your doorstep with a notarized birth certificate.

ab initio

April 28th, 2011
5:53 pm

“I guess you don’t believe in God either unless he showed up on your doorstep with a notarized birth certificate.

But, you are not, God. You are a nameless, faceless, individual posting a story on an internet chat forum. The proof (or, birth certificate) I’m waiting on, is to see your comments verified by a credible source. Until then, your story means as much to me, as Bradley’s ramblings in this article/blog meme.

The only difference in this story, is that Bradley, for some reason, gets paid for it.

The Truth

April 28th, 2011
6:00 pm

How about my ticket to the game and the text to my brother to meet me at the outfield wall during batting practice at that same time? Sorry I didn’t get any video for you since I only have an iphone 3g that doesn’t have video. You are just as nameless here as I am so I don’t know why you think your opinion about me or Bradley matters to anyone either.

BoSoxRock

April 28th, 2011
6:02 pm

“Got to love free speech”

Go to the lobby of your place of work, hand out your business card and have something on your body representing the company you work for and start hurling anti-gay or racial slurs then play the free speech card – as you’re being escorted off the property. Oh, then come back on here and tell us what your lawyer says when you want to sue for wrongful termination. Good luck.

Delawares Only Braves Fan

April 28th, 2011
6:09 pm

It’s amazing how some candy a$$ fudge boy who wants his 15min of fame.Will do anything to get it.Someone should ask him if thats the worst thing his kids supposedly heard that day.knowing the fan base of the giants I say NO!!!I say tell him,his lawyer,and the rest of the lynch mob to pack it.

ab initio

April 28th, 2011
6:12 pm

“You are just as nameless here as I am so I don’t know why you think your opinion about me or Bradley matters to anyone either.”

Indeed, I am. Which begs some questions; first, what do you want? Second, why are you so intent on selling me the story you posted here? Third, if Selig himself states, ““After I have all the facts, I will make a determination of how to proceed.”, what do you have against my rationale in waiting for your comments to be verified? Finally, when did I ever say that your comments weren’t accurate?

You responded to me. I never responded to your original post. In fact, it is quite possible that you posted your story at around the same time I was articulating my response to Bradley. In fact, your original comment had me read your story, for which I was anything but interested. You should be glad that I even gave it a thought. But I’m not going to take your word for it.

LLUGA

April 28th, 2011
6:29 pm

@ TrishaDishaWarEagle – You wrote “So now gays are utterly protected by law from being offended. screw that..nobody has a right not to be offended. Offending the thin skinned is one of life’s greatest pleasures.” Do you work for a living? Do you understand that what McDowell says at work while wearing a Braves uniform reflects on the entire organization? Do you understand that the Braves may not be happy with McDowell? Do you seriously think anyone should have carte blanche to offend, intimidate, bully, or belittle anyone they want? Are you that stupid and cruel?

BravesTigersgirl

April 28th, 2011
6:32 pm

If true, what RM did was wrong, but the media has no business in shaping public opinion as well as corporate opinion in the punishment of RM. 5-10 years ago, if proven, RM would be subject to substantial suspension, fine and counseling as it should be! But now we have the media inflaming public opinion without a full set of facts and demanding his ouster just because Gloria Allred requests his firing. That is just as wrong as what RM is accused of doing in SF.

bigdawg

April 28th, 2011
6:35 pm

Sorry, Roger! You live in a town with one of the higher LGBT populations in the U.S. Gay slurs are equivalent to racial slurs. You may be a good guy…so am I…but I’ve made mistakes, too, and have paid for them by losing a job!

Joey

April 28th, 2011
6:36 pm

Fans are allowed to say what they want but when a coach or a player lashes back then the damn world is coming to an end. If you not gay then dont let it bother you. If you are, get over it. Its just words. It shouldnt define you.

bigdawg

April 28th, 2011
6:38 pm

Delaware’s only Braves fan: Real Braves fans don’t want your hateful, bigoted self to be a fan. Why don’t you and Donald Trump go play in the traffic together!

bigdawg

April 28th, 2011
6:41 pm

Also, he seems to be straight as he is pictured with his family, Delaware. You might want to actually READ and pay attention to the article before revealing your hatred and fear of gays (must be closeted yourself…those who protest the most usually hate themselves b/c they are what they hate!).

tim

April 28th, 2011
6:57 pm

And the Quinn family needs an attorney for……??

MitchC

April 28th, 2011
7:06 pm

Do any bloggers on this blog remember an incident.. or incidents, where soon to be Hall of Famer Bert Blyleven gave crowds that were heckling him, the finger, after being removed from games, on, supposedly two occasions? I dont recall what action, if any, was taken against Blyleven for those incidents.

Dream fan

April 28th, 2011
9:00 pm

For those of you who don’t follow him, check out Darren Rovell (CNBC’s sports business reporter) on Twitter. He has an “Empty Stadium Series” in which he tweets photos of how there are lots of empty seats in stadiums thoughout the country. Maybe Roger should be sent some of those photos before he starts talking about who should be at the ballpark and who shouldn’t.

Larry

April 28th, 2011
9:02 pm

Maybe now we can get a pitching coach for the Braves. Something that has been lacking since the days of Leo!

Brava

April 28th, 2011
9:03 pm

The only thing that I can clearly understand from your article is that anyone who is ‘anti-gay’ is a homophobe, and regardless of whether they object to the homosexual lifestyle and its effects on loved ones or friends matters not; you will attempt to skewer them with your own intolerance. ab intitio

Really? You didn’t get the part where Roger McDowell allegedly made obscene gestures with his hips and a bat, made gay slurs toward paying customers at AT&T Park and threatened a dad who objected with bashing his teeth out with a bat?

No, I get it, all you got from it was a chance to rant about the homosexual lifestyle. I’m very curious though, what effect exactly has it had on your loved ones or friends?

Here’s another bit of news, if you consider yourself anti-gay, you are probably a homophobe. Otherwise, there would be no reason to be anti something that is none of your business, such as who other people love and have intimate relations with.

jimbob

April 28th, 2011
9:11 pm

Free Roger!

He should have to go to GLBT sensitivity training, but I don’t support firing him. If he establishes a pattern of gayphobia, attacking them, or inciting hatred of them, then I’d support it.

just wondering

April 28th, 2011
9:20 pm

Skitty Fritty I was being sarcastic i do not think rice a roni when i think san francisco

Trey

April 28th, 2011
9:39 pm

Good lord. Everyone is ready to fire McDowell. Why not allow McDowell to give his side of the story before you condemn him folks? In fact, other Giants fans have come out to say that they were at the game around the area when this happened, and they told their side of the story. Especially since they have Gloria Allred.

Trey

April 28th, 2011
9:46 pm

“Here is a comment on the SF Chronicle website from a guy who says he was there when this incident occured,

“I was there and was about 2 people away from this guy with the complaint. He was actually the one being the instigator. It all started with McDowell and David Ross being heckled by 3 guys in the bleachers because they wouldn’t throw batting practice balls into the stands. McDowell had a bat with him and was hitting the BP balls back to the infield. McDowell then turned to them and asked if they were a “gay couple” or a “threesome”. He then took the bat and made stroking motions with it and thrusting his hips and he asked the 3 hecklers if that was what they were going to do to each other later that night. Everybody in the stands were laughing. Then a few minutes later, this Quinn guy yells “hey coach, my kids want to know what that means”. Then he was saying that McDowell shouldn’t be doing that stuff in front of kids. Then Quinn yelled out “come over here and say it to me”. That is when McDowell started walking over to the wall. Quinn’s family then started to pull at him and told him to stop. Quinn then turned to his wife and said “what’s he going to do? come up here?”. Then McDowell was telling him that if he didn’t want his kids hearing stuff like that hen he should have said something to the 3 hecklers that started the whole thing. Quinn just kept going on and calling McDowell a “joke” because he should know better. McDowell told Quinn that he should tell the 3 hecklers to not say anything if he was so offended and Quinn said back “where are they?” as if he never even heard the heckling himself which would be outrageous since everyone in the bleachers heard the hecklers. Not once did Quinn look like he feared of getting harmed since he was the one that called McDowell over to him plus the fact that Quinn was in the bleachers and at least 5 ft higher than McDowell. Quinn instigated the whole thing.

Yes, McDowell was wrong doing that stuff but this guy Quinn is crying wolf about being a victim when he instigated the whole confrontation. And getting Allred to represent him and calling a press conference is a complete joke.”

Someone posted this from what they read on the San Fran Chronicles.

Brava

April 28th, 2011
10:12 pm

Trey, that comment, if it’s actually from someone who was there, doesn’t disprove the allegations against McDowell. If anything it supports his alleged crude and unprofessional behavior. It does leave out the threat with the baseball bat, but since the guy went and filed a report with the police, I tend to believe there may be something there. It is a felony, after all, to make false reports to the police.

The proper action for McDowell to have taken when being heckled, was to ignore it and go about his duties. I’ve seen many hecklers at games, but have never seen a player or coach engage them in any way.

Trey

April 28th, 2011
10:18 pm

Brava, I know it was there. He did say the jokes are inappropriate, but we all make inappropriate jokes to get a chuckle. The only person who seemed to have a problem with it is that dumb-ass with his family in the photo above. Anyway, why didn’t this dude just ask the hecklers to quit?

It is a felony to file a fake police report but people still do it. People do a lot of things that are felonies and crimes. Hell, what about that family who lied about that kid being in that balloon? This is all about getting attention.

Trey

April 28th, 2011
10:19 pm

lesser crimes*

KJ

April 28th, 2011
10:29 pm

If what Trey posted is true, McDowell should be given a few games off, and that pathetic POS who hired the lawyer should die in a grease fire.

Brad Komminsk

April 28th, 2011
10:36 pm

Will someone please tell this pathetic excuse for a man who hired Gloria Allred that he needs to grow a pair and quit acting like a little girl? I mean, come on. I guess it shouldn’t surprise anyone, given the effeminate twinkle toes metrosexual that’s currently residing in the White House. Enjoy the show folks, the sun is setting on the last best hope of the world…

ab initio

April 29th, 2011
12:26 am

“Really? You didn’t get the part where Roger McDowell allegedly made obscene gestures with his hips and a bat, made gay slurs toward paying customers at AT&T Park and threatened a dad who objected with bashing his teeth out with a bat?”

Which anyone can get driving around town during rush hour. Again, you don’t know the whole story and until you do, you’re just speculating like the rest. Or pushing an agenda.

“No, I get it, all you got from it was a chance to rant about the homosexual lifestyle. I’m very curious though, what effect exactly has it had on your loved ones or friends?”

None of your business, kid.

“Here’s another bit of news, if you consider yourself anti-gay, you are probably a homophobe. “Otherwise, there would be no reason to be anti something that is none of your business, such as who other people love and have intimate relations with.”

A person can be anti-gay and not be a homophobe. There are plenty of Americans who have family members or friends, or peers who are gay, who have told gays that they don’t agree with their lifestyle, and continue to be members of families, friends or peers with gays.

That you think this is a one-way street says more about you and your agenda. But that wasn’t your real aim at all was it. You don’t want to be tolerant, unless you dictate the terms, as you tried to do in your pathetic comment to me.

Grow up and deal with it.

acbwcmm

April 29th, 2011
1:11 am

The people that are on this blog talking about freedom of speech and the right to disagree with a “lifestyle” are so off base!!

This is not about either of those things. This is about a man that is AT WORK behaving in an inappropriate manner. This is about a man making threatening statements to another person. Freedom of speech does not cover threats.

I’m really annoyed that people are saying this is a “gay-slur” issue and opening the door for the bigots of the world to weigh in. That family in the picture are not gay. The men that he referred to as “homo’s” are not in the picture! I’m a lesbian and I am not offended by the word “homo”, just like most of you would not be offended by the term “hetero”.

The Braves (the employer) will make the decision of what should be done for inappropriate behavior at the work place and that should be that.

ab initio

April 29th, 2011
1:30 am

“The people that are on this blog talking about freedom of speech and the right to disagree with a “lifestyle” are so off base!!”

I assume this was directed at me, and I will respectfully enjoin your argument.

People who write blogs for a major news organization that use charged words like ‘intolerance’ and ‘homophobe’ to paint a picture of a person without knowing all the facts in the case are off base as well, and that is what my point was. That I got sidetracked by someone who couldn’t critically think about my comments, and tried to employ the same tactics as the author, is not germane to this discussion.

This ‘us’ vs. ‘them’ mentality of journalism has got to stop, or George Thomas’, ‘The Works of Sallust’, which has warnings about factions destroying societies will be as true regarding ours and it has for others. Solzhenitsyn has also spoken at length about this practice in Harvard in 1978, in which has turned into a most prophetic work.

I hope this gives a good accounting, and I agree with much of your statement.

braves rule

April 29th, 2011
2:41 am

just suspend him a couple of games—no big deal.

gogiants '11

April 29th, 2011
3:50 am

Another John Rocker? … Roger must be fired if it’s all true …
Don’t like the idea of Gloria Allred’s involvement though

Tron5000

April 29th, 2011
4:10 am

More trouble. D. Lowe currently being processed in Atlanta Detention Center for suspicion of DUI. My friend Adam Krohn of the Gainesville Times broke the story.

RT @gtimesakrohn “Braves pitcher Derek Lowe arrested in Atlanta http://www.gainesvilletimes.com/section/33/article/49705/“

John10:10

April 29th, 2011
5:29 am

Homosexuality is a demonic abomination (Romans 1st chapter) that mocks God but Coach McDowell didn’t speak with Jesus’ authority. Give him a break but keep him on a short leash.

Suenah

April 29th, 2011
7:43 am

LEO OH LEO!!!!

douglas

April 29th, 2011
8:04 am

Bring some fags onto the field to stroke some bats and all will be forgotten

crossdawg

April 29th, 2011
8:12 am

Roger’s a good coach & I hope the Braves have the guts to keep him. Calling a spade a spade or a gaaay a gaaay appears to fall under freedom of speech.

Dinkdunk

April 29th, 2011
8:14 am

Bottom feeder Gloria Allred wants a check-thats all.

Seriously!!!

April 29th, 2011
8:19 am

The photo opp with this jerk sitting there with his family all pious and innocent! Seriously!!! What sort of profanities and insults was he hurling at McDowell to set him off? Every story has two sides and it’s always the retaliation that gets noticed not the provocation.

Mr. Quinn is probably a professional heckler and enjoys insulting visiting players and coaches and does so proudly to the enjoyment, I’m sure, of his family and the fans nearby.

He can dish it out freely and not take it? Not taking up for McDowell for his unwise choice of words or any prejudices he may be harboring but this Quinn guy is a creep.

Man up.

BravesFan

April 29th, 2011
8:22 am

He has to go. The homophobia is bad enough, but he went way, way overboard. He needs to be fired by the Braves and fined by MLB. This is not acceptable behavior.

Not A Hewitt Fan

April 29th, 2011
8:34 am

Inmates runnin the asylum…….isnt it funny that free speech only applies to “minorities” of any type. So it isnt really “Free” speech is it?

Big Grant

April 29th, 2011
8:45 am

A pitching coach isn’t worth the distraction. Cut him and let’s move forward.

DawgDad

April 29th, 2011
8:52 am

While I agree having this Allred attack dog on your heels is not a good thing, it occurs to me we probably don’t know all the facts and are likely getting a very slanted view of the story. If McDowell stepped over the line and embarrassed MLB by his comments that would deserve what? First offense, fine and possible suspension. He didn’t harm or endanger anybody physically, so it’s hard to see how this should cost him his job. Embarrassing MLB is actually a pretty hard thing to do – after all, they’ve been known to tolerate (coddle or market if you will) intravenous drug users, illegal drug users, drunks, wife beaters, sex addicts, convicted felons, you name it. They are known to be a bit touchy on racial-toned comments, hard to say how they’ll rate this.

Ready when you are CB

April 29th, 2011
8:58 am

In the world we live in today, just the allegation that has been made, regardless of the facts, is enough to provide a distraction for the Braves for the rest of the season; they need to fire McDowell or at least suspend him for the remainder of the season if they want to be successful this year.

Thad Mumau

April 29th, 2011
9:14 am

Is Leo Mazzone being fitted for a uni?

fred

April 29th, 2011
9:25 am

stupid statement Big Grant. How do you know what a pitching coach is worth… just stupid .

fred

April 29th, 2011
9:31 am

ready CB…you don’t fire some one on allegations without facts. What if someone made alligation against you and you were fired without facts and most important you were innocent. Thats not justice! That’s the left talking.

What does other Braves players with Mc at time have to say?

Another blow to the Braves: Derek Lowe arrested for DUI | Mark Bradley

April 29th, 2011
9:32 am

[...] sorting out what to do about pitching coach Roger McDowell wasn’t difficult enough, the Braves awoke this morning to learn that Derek Lowe, who has [...]

fred

April 29th, 2011
9:33 am

However if guility then thats a different story?

Mark

April 29th, 2011
9:35 am

This isn’t the first altercation for McDowell – he did spit a lugey on Kramer when he was still playing for the mets.
Seriously – anyone who hires Gloria Allred has zero credibility, looking for a payday. Drop it!

Dom

April 29th, 2011
9:44 am

And people actually wonder why this country is going to hell in a handbasket. This hypocritical PC insanity is destroying our culture and people’s lives.

The best part is how the closed-minded gay bullying mafia members of the media demand open-mindedness for their gay friends but if anyone dares to offend them then off with their heads!

This disgusting attention chasing hobag attourney and shameless father are exploiting 7 year old children?

And same on you Mark for justifying this with a story.

Jborodawg

April 29th, 2011
10:18 am

Where was Allred when B.Bonds was juicin up and being a shameful example to kids? Whole thing smacks of possibly being disingenuous; hiring a lawyer when you have a coach say something to ya at a ballgame? IF he said or did anything. But, IF he said and did everything that’s been alleged, then make him take sensitivity training or something; and a warning. Another “episode”, he’s outa here.

Just hard to believe a pro who’s been in and around BB for so long, and seen and heard every type of screaming, yelling, and off-color comments from fans…would “fold” in this one situation. Just saying…

Bring Me the Head of Deforest Kelley

April 29th, 2011
10:19 am

From other comments on this page, people’s defense of McDowell seems to be based on one or more of these premises:
1. Gloria Allred is a horrible person. By extension, anyone who would employ her is also a horrible person and forfeits all credibility.
2. San Francisco is a horrible city where no “normal” person should want to live. Therefore the standards for professional conduct which apply everywhere else, shouldn’t apply there.
3. Being gay is unacceptable. So making remarks against this lifestyle IS acceptable.

The problem is that it is McDowell’s conduct that has been called into questioned here, not Gloria Allred, not the city of San Francisco, not the gay lifestyle. The reality is none of these premises justify McDowell’s actions, regardless of whether anyone individually subscribes to all, some or none of them.

you make my point for me, Mark

April 29th, 2011
10:45 am

As I was saying, I suspect the above poster would have zero issue had the “victims” been white, heterosexual Christians. Just a hunch.

Bring Me the Head of Deforest Kelley

April 29th, 2011
10:59 am

The person launching the complaint against McDowell is:
1. White – please refer to the photo at the top of this article.
2. Presumably heterosexual, considering he has a wife and two daughters – again, refer to the photo.

I have no idea about his religion. Is it presumed he is not Christian? Does this matter?

James

April 29th, 2011
11:13 am

Fire McDowell and bring Leo Mazzone back.

you make my point for me, Mark

April 29th, 2011
12:26 pm

This is only news since its being labeled as “anti-gay.” It really isnt that difficult to understand.

Pierson Brave

April 29th, 2011
2:37 pm

Leo Mazzone is not coming back. Get over it! The Braves already have a pitching coach. He just needs to load his brain before shooting of his mouth. Much like many of the posters on the AJC sports blogs.

J. Rocker

April 29th, 2011
11:04 pm

What’s the big deal?

BigHorn

May 1st, 2011
8:46 pm

I am sick and tired of the chronically offended. This political correctness stuff is way out of control. I

rozer

May 2nd, 2011
5:29 am

good Blog and i love to read this

Roger McDowell: A good pitching coach is in deep trouble

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Roger McDowell: A good pitching coach is in deep trouble

351 comments Add your comment

About Mark Bradley

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