MLB investigating Pillar's possible use of homophobic slur toward Motte
Major League Baseball is investigating an exchange between Toronto Blue Jays outfielder Kevin Pillar and Atlanta Braves reliever Jason Motte during Wednesday's game in which it's alleged Pillar used a homophobic slur, a league spokesperson told Laura Armstrong of the Toronto Star.
Motte struck out Pillar on a quick pitch to end the seventh inning and began walking off the mound when the center fielder proceeded to yell at him from the plate. PiIlar appeared to be upset with the fact Motte had deployed the quick pitch.
Following the exchange - which resulted in the benches clearing - it was suggested on social media that Pillar used a homophobic slur.
So are we just going to pretend that @KPILLAR4 didn't initiate all this by yelling a gay slur? Better step up on this one, @MLB. pic.twitter.com/8bB3xijtCu
— Dr. B (@BlakeTheRxGuy) May 18, 2017
Pillar was not asked directly what he said, though he was apologetic for his actions postgame.
"It was immature, it was stupid, it was uncalled for," Pillar told reporters. "It’s part of the game, it's just, I'm a competitive guy and heat of the moment. ... Obviously, something to learn from, something to move on from."