MLB requires sensitivity training for Brewers' Hader

Milwaukee Brewers general manager David Stearns and Major League Baseball issued statements Wednesday regarding relief pitcher Josh Hader, who came under a firestorm of criticism after controversial years-old tweets surfaced during Tuesday night's All-Star Game.

"We have been in contact with Josh and he is fully aware of the severity of the situation related to his social media comments, regardless of the timeline of his posts," Stearns' statement read. "His comments are inexcusable, and he is taking full responsibility for the consequences of his actions. In no way do these sentiments reflect the views of the Brewers organization or our community.

"Those of us that have come to know Josh do not believe that these posts are representative of his beliefs. He has been a good teammate and contributor to the team in every way.

"We will continue to work through this issue with Josh as we prepare to resume games after the break."

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MLB announced that Hader would be subject to sensitivity training.

"During last night's game we became aware of Mr. Hader's unacceptable social media comments in years past and have since been in communication with the Brewers regarding our shared concerns," the league's statement read. "After the game, Mr. Hader took the necessary step of expressing remorse for his highly offensive and hurtful language, which fails to represent the values of our game and our expectations for all those who are a part of it. The Office of the Commissioner will require sensitivity training for Mr. Hader and participation in MLB's diversity and inclusion initiatives."

Hader apologized when speaking to reporters Tuesday night when asked about racist and anti-gay comments from seven years ago that came to light during the All-Star Game in Washington D.C.

"I was young, immature and stupid," Hader, 24, said. "There's no excuse for what was said. I'm deeply sorry for what I've said and what's been going on. It doesn't reflect any of my beliefs going on now.

"It was something that happened when I was 17 years old. As a child I was immature. Obviously I said some things that were inexcusable. That doesn't reflect who I am as a person today. That's just what it is."

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Hader added that he planned to apologize to his teammates for the comments.

"He was young. We all say some crazy stuff when we're young," said Brewers outfielder Lorenzo Cain. "So, we'll move on from this. He said it, it's over, it's done with, and we're gonna focus on playing baseball."

Hader appeared in Tuesday's game, allowing three runs (one earned) on four hits while recording just one out. Members of his family in attendance removed or hid jerseys bearing his name in order to avoid attracting unwanted attention from others, according to Jeff Passan of Yahoo Sports.

Hader, who has a 1.50 ERA and has struck out 89 batters in 48 innings with the Brewers this season, told reporters he would accept any consequences that may come as a result of the tweets.

--Field Level Media