Red Sox address Hunter's statement on racist taunts: His 'experience is real'

The Boston Red Sox issued a statement Wednesday acknowledging the experiences of retired MLB outfielder Torii Hunter after he recently said he faced racist taunts from fans at Fenway Park throughout his career.

"Torii Hunter's experience is real," the statement read. "If you doubt him because you've never heard it yourself, take it from us, it happens.

"Last year, there were seven 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."

Hunter, a five-time All-Star, said that although he experienced racism at multiple ballparks over the course of his 19-year career, it was a constant in Boston. He had no-trade clauses protecting him from landing with the Red Sox built into his MLB contracts as a result.

The Red Sox added they are committed to eliminating racism at Fenway.

"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," the team wrote. "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 we are listening. We hear you, and we believe you."