Red Sox broadcaster apologizes for suggesting Yankees players be hit
WEEI broadcaster Will Flemming apologized for comments during Sunday's game where he suggested a Red Sox pitcher should hit Yankees catcher Austin Wells and fight Jazz Chisholm Jr. He said his emotions got the best of him and he meant no disrespect. The remarks drew backlash on social media.
Flemming issued his apology on X after receiving what he described as "nonstop calls and threats" following the broadcast. His remarks came during the eighth inning of Sunday's lopsided 16-1 Yankees victory, after Jazz Chisholm Jr. stole two bases with a six-run lead and later scored on Austin Wells' home run. The broadcaster also criticized a fifth-inning replay review that overturned a Ceddanne Rafaela catch, which led to a five-run inning for New York.
Flemming has been with WEEI since 2019, previously calling games for Boston's Triple-A affiliate. His brother, Dave Flemming, serves as the play-by-play voice for the San Francisco Giants. Audacy, WEEI's parent company, did not respond to a request for comment, while the Red Sox directed inquiries to Flemming's public statement.
This incident may intensify scrutiny of broadcasters' conduct during heated rivalry games, as emotional commentary can blur the line between fandom and professionalism. Listeners and teams could become more sensitive to on-air suggestions of violence, potentially prompting stations to reinforce editorial guidelines. The backlash may also affect Flemming's credibility and trust with audiences, though his quick apology could mitigate long-term damage to his career and the station's reputation.