Blue Jays Cut Loose Controversial Pitcher

After a scandalous couple of weeks, the Toronto Blue Jays have finally relented to what everyone following the team has been calling for, and have DFA'd controversial reliever Anthony Bass.

Anthony Bass has been designated for assignment, the Blue Jays announced. pic.twitter.com/zViiXogqHT

— Sportsnet (@Sportsnet) June 9, 2023

The timing is impeccable, as the Blue Jays get set to celebrate Pride Weekend in Toronto. He was actually scheduled to catch the ceremonial first pitch Friday night, which, obviously, will no longer happen.

 The move to DFA Bass comes after the pitcher spread hateful, anti-LGBTQ messages on Instagram, followed by a short scripted apology, and then 10 days later doubling down on it all, saying that he did not believe his post was hateful, and "that's why I posted it originally. When I look back at it, I can see how people would view it that way and that's why I was apologetic." 

Bass, in his meeting with the media yesterday, said he shared the video "because it lined up with my Christian beliefs and values. That's why I liked it, as well." He added that the video's stance on "big corporations targeting young children was what really struck home for me, being a father of two little ones."

The reliever, who had struggled to a 4.95 ERA this season and was no longer trusted in any sort of high-leverage situations, will now have plenty more time to spend with his little ones. 

In a corresponding roster move, RHP Mitch White has been reinstated from the 60-day IL.

Photo: Troy Taormina-USA TODAY Sports