Red Sox Announcer Apologizes for Urging Pitcher to Hit Yankees Player

Boston Red Sox radio announcer Will Flemming apologized Monday for on-air comments during a weekend loss to the New York Yankees in which he suggested a pitcher should intentionally hit a batter and fight an opposing player. The remarks, made during a lopsided game, drew widespread criticism and prompted Flemming to return to social media to express regret. The incident occurred during the Yankees' 16-1 victory over the Red Sox on Sunday, August 30, at Yankee Stadium. With New York holding a 7-1 lead in the eighth inning, Yankees second baseman Jazz Chisholm Jr. stole second and third base. Flemming, the play-by-play voice for WEEI's Red Sox radio broadcasts, criticized Chisholm's actions as "bush league" and said he "plays the game the wrong way." His broadcast partner, analyst Will Middlebrooks, called the base stealing "selfish" and "padding your stats." Flemming's frustration escalated further. As Yankees catcher Austin Wells came to bat with Chisholm on third, Flemming suggested Red Sox pitcher Jovani Moran should retaliate. "Wouldn't you sort of like to see Moran drill Wells right here?" he said on the broadcast.