SI today issued a statement after the Astros "questioned the accuracy of an SI story" about comments made by Assistant GM/Player Evaluation Brandon Taubman about P Roberto Osuna. The publication said it "unequivocally stands behind" reporter Stephanie Apstein, and her story was "subsequently corroborated by several other media members present at the scene." SI continues, "Any implication that SI or any of its journalists would ‘fabricate’ a story in its detail or intent is both disappointing and completely inexcusable." The Astros "did not deny Taubman's comments, but said he was 'supporting the player during a difficult time'" (SI.com, 10/22).
In a subsequent statement, Taubman admitted that he "used inappropriate language for which I am deeply sorry and embarrassed." Taubman: "My overexuberance in support of a player has been misinterpreted as a demonstration of a regressive attitude about an important social issue. ... The Sports Illustrated article does not reflect who I am or my values" (TWITTER.com, 10/22).
MLB issued its own statement: “Domestic violence is extraordinarily serious and everyone in baseball must use care to not engage in any behavior -- whether intentional or not -- that could be construed as minimizing the egregiousness of an act of domestic violence. We became aware of this incident through the Sports Illustrated article. The Astros have disputed Sports Illustrated’s characterization of the incident. MLB will interview those involved before commenting further” (THE DAILY).
