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Former All-Star outfielder Torii Hunter
recently said in an ESPN interview that he was "called the
N-word in Boston 100 times. Little kids, with their parents
right next to them. ... That's why I had a no-trade clause to
Boston in every contract I had."
The Red Sox acknowledged the facts in a Twitter post, writing,
"Torii Hunter's experience is real.
"If you doubt him because you've never heard it yourself, take
it from us, it happens.
"Last year, there were 7 reported incidents at Fenway Park where
fans used racial slurs. Those are just the ones we know about.
"And it's not only players. It happens to the dedicated Black
employees who work for us on game days. Their uniforms may be
different, but their voices and experiences are just as
important.
"We are ... committed to using our platform to amplify the many
voices who are calling out injustice.
"There are well-established consequences for fans who use racial
slurs and hate speech in our venue, and we know we have more
work to do. This small group of fans does not represent who we
are, but are rather a reflection of larger systemic issues that
as an organization we need to address.
"True change starts from within, and as we identify how we can
do better, please know that we are listening."
Hunter replied to the Red Sox's tweet, writing, "Change starts
now. Much love!" The message was followed by emojis in a variety
of skin tones.
Hunter, 44, played in the major leagues from 1997-2015, making
five All-Star teams and winning nine Gold Gloves and two Silver
Sluggers. He played 12 years for the Minnesota Twins, five for
the Los Angeles Angels and two for the Detroit Tigers.
The Red Sox didn't have a black player until Pumpsie Green
joined the team in July 1959, more than 12 years after Jackie
Robinson broke baseball's color barrier.
--Field Level Media
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