Pirates broadcaster Steve Blass: 'I don't have to defend myself'

Steve Blass didn’t have much to say publicly about the controversy over remarks he made regarding Atlanta Braves outfielder Ronald Acuna Jr. during a telecast of the Pittsburgh Pirates’ game Tuesday night at PNC Park.

But he did want to make something clear to those who have known him during his 60-year relationship with the Pirates.

“I don’t have to defend myself. I know I’m not a racist,” Blass said Thursday before walking into the PNC Park broadcast booth to call a game against the Braves.

Blass, 77, drew criticism from national media after he commented on Acuna Jr. adjusting the chains around his neck during an at-bat and implying that “back in the day” that would have been cause for a pitcher to throw at a batter.

“With a young player just doing all that stuff and all the jewelry and all the stuff, back in the day … I’m not saying it’s right or wrong …” Blass said.

When Pirates pitcher Steven Brault hit Acuna Jr. with a pitch, Blass emphasized to broadcast partner Greg Brown he wasn’t suggesting it was done on purpose.

“That’s why I qualified it, back in the day,” he said.

When Acuna Jr. glared at Brault, Blass said, “Give it a rest. You think he’s trying to throw at you. Give me a break.”

Two prominent Pirates past and present came to Blass’ defense.

Like Acuna Jr., relief pitcher Felipe Vazquez is a native of Venezuela. He tweeted, “There are a lot of stupid ignorant people in the world. Steve didn’t say anything wrong.”

there’s a lot of stupid ignorant people in the world, Steve didn’t said anything wrong! He was just making a comment on his rookie days ?

— Nightmare Vazquez (@F_Vazquez73) June 5, 2019

A message from a Twitter account claiming to be Manny Sanguillen, who was the catcher for Blass during their Pirates playing careers said, “I wore a chain when I played.”

Let me State for the record, Steve Blass is not a racist! Doña Vera chose him to give Roberto’s eulogy, he also gave Willie’s eulogy. Steve is a good man & great friend. Can we stop bashing him? He’s been w the @Pirates for 60 yrs. Let him retire w/o controversy ?????? https://t.co/bquyqnwEJc

— Manny Sanguillen (@TheRealSangy35) June 6, 2019

Blass, who was the winning pitcher in Game 7 of the 1971 World Series, played 10 seasons with the Pirates. He delivered the eulogy at Roberto Clemente’s funeral in Puerto Rico in 1973.

I wore a chain when I played, it’s even on a card, Dock Ellis wore earrings. Sometimes things get blown up, misunderstood. If you knew Steve you would know he is honestly not racist. He spoke on Bryce Harpers chains too, yet it didn’t make news. I’ve given my POV. Thank you. ??

— Manny Sanguillen (@TheRealSangy35) June 6, 2019