Anthony Bass’ sorry was not enough for Blue Jays manager John Schneider.
The Toronto skipper said Bass offered his apologies on Tuesday after igniting a firestorm in sharing a video to his Instagram Story on Monday that urged others to boycott Target and Bug Light amid their on-going LGBTQ+-supportive campaigns.
Bass’ apology was a “first step,” to learning how his actions are accountable to others, according to Schneider.
“It’s not going to be a 15 or 30-second apology and say, ‘OK, I did my part,’ ” the manager told reporters Tuesday. “There’s going to be continued work with the resources we do have to try to show that he’s understanding that he made a mistake.”
“We’re going to continue to make the Rogers Center a very welcoming place for everyone to come to,” he added. “It doesn’t reflect our views as an organization.”
Target is currently receiving backlash for selling Pride and LGBTQ+ merchandise, while Bud Light is struggling after it partnered with transgender influencer Dylan Mulvaney.
Bass, 35, made a brief statement to reporters before the Blue Jays hosted the Brewers on Tuesday, though he did not take questions.
“As of right now, I am using the Blue Jays’ resources to better educate myself to make better decisions moving forward,” he said. “The ballpark is for everybody. We include all fans at the ballpark. We want to welcome everybody. That’s all I have to say.”
Bass’ post came just before Toronto begins celebrating Pride Month, with the organization planning to give out rainbow flag jerseys as part of their Pride Weekend festivities June 9-10.
According to Schneider, the Blue Jays did not discuss any discipline for Bass, who also drew attention this season for a social media post calling out a flight attendant who asked his pregnant wife to pick up popcorn spilled by Bass’ toddler.
It’s one of several recent high-profile MLB incidents involving the LGBTQ+ community.
On Monday, Dodgers pitcher Clayton Kershaw voiced his concerns about the team inviting — and then un-inviting and then re-inviting — queer and trans group the Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence to its Pride Night.
Nationals reliever Trevor Williamson penned a lengthy statement on Twitter calling out the Dodgers’ invitation of the group.
Last season, several Rays players cited their faith in refusing to wear Pride jerseys.
