Jorge Lopez issues classy statement following Mets incident
Apr 8, 2024; Cumberland, Georgia, USA; New York Mets relief pitcher Jorge Lopez (52) pitches against the Atlanta Braves during the ninth inning at Truist Park. Mandatory Credit: Dale Zanine-USA TODAY Sports
Pitcher Jorge Lopez issued a more formal apology on Thursday for his comments and actions after Wednesday’s New York Mets loss.
Lopez had been quoted by some media members as calling the Mets “the worst team probably in the whole f—ing MLB” in his postgame comments after he melted down in the team’s latest loss. He issued a second clarification about that quote in a statement posted to social media while also apologizing for his behavior.
“First and foremost, I apologize to my teammates, coaches, fans, and front office,” Lopez wrote in both Spanish and English. “I feel that I let them down yesterday, both on and off the field. I also want to clarify my post-game remarks, because I had no intention of disparaging the New York Mets organization. During that interview, I spoke candidly about my frustrations with my personal performance and how I felt it made me ‘the worst teammate in the entire league’. Unfortunately, my efforts to address the media in English created some confusion and generated headlines that do not reflect what I was trying to express. I wish the team the best and hope that God continues to give me strength and guidance in my personal and professional life.”
Lopez did clarify his comments earlier Thursday, but blamed the media for the misinterpretation. This statement is much more conciliatory, especially since he initially said after the game that he did not regret his actions.
A former All-Star, Lopez had a 3.76 ERA in 28 appearances this season. The Mets moved on from him following his on-field incident and off-field comments in the wak of Wednesday’s loss to the Los Angeles Dodgers.