Pillar 'utterly embarrassed' after using homophobic slur

Toronto Blue Jays outfielder Kevin Pillar issued an apology Thursday afternoon in response to directing a homophobic slur towards Atlanta Braves reliever Jason Motte during Wednesday's game.

"Last night, following my at-bat in the seventh inning, I used inappropriate language towards Braves pitcher Jason Motte," Pillar said in a statement. "By doing so I had just helped extend the use of a word that has no place in baseball, in sports or anywhere in society today. I'm completely and utterly embarrassed and feel horrible to have put the fans, my teammates and the Blue Jays organization in this position.

"I have apologized to Jason Motte, but also need to apologize to the Braves organization and their fans, and most importantly, to the LGBTQ community for the lack of respect I displayed last night. This is not who I am and will use this as opportunity to better myself."

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.

Major League Baseball is currently investigating the incident and could issue a suspension to Pillar.