Oakland Athletics’ radio announcer, Vince Cotroneo, found himself at the center of controversy on Sunday, May 15th, after using a racial slur on air during a game between the Athletics and the Minnesota Twins.

Cotroneo was discussing Twins pitcher Caleb Thielbar, who is Native American, when he referred to him as “the little red man from Minnesota.” The comment immediately drew criticism and backlash from listeners who found the remark to be offensive and racially insensitive.

The incident occurred in the bottom of the eighth inning during the Athletics’ radio broadcast. As soon as Cotroneo made the comment, many listeners took to social media to express their outrage and call for him to be fired.

Cotroneo quickly apologized for his remark, acknowledging that it was insensitive and offensive. He said in a statement, “I made a mistake and said something that was inappropriate and hurtful. I’m deeply sorry for my actions and the harm they caused.”

The Oakland Athletics organization also released a statement, condemning Cotroneo’s words and stating that they do not condone or tolerate any form of racism or discrimination. They also announced that Cotroneo would be suspended from his broadcasting duties for the remainder of the week.

The incident has reignited conversations about racial sensitivity and inclusivity in sports broadcasting. This is not the first time a sports commentator has faced backlash for using a racial slur or making an insensitive comment on air.

In recent years, several high-profile incidents have brought issues of racism and discrimination to the forefront of the sports world. In 2019, ESPN anchor Rob Parker was suspended for comments he made about NFL quarterback Robert Griffin III’s “blackness.”

Earlier this year, longtime Chicago Cubs announcer Len Kasper resigned from his position after criticism over his use of a Native American caricature during a game broadcast.

These incidents have prompted many sports organizations and broadcasters to take a closer look at their policies and procedures regarding racial sensitivity and inclusivity. Many have implemented training programs and other initiatives aimed at promoting diversity and reducing the likelihood of insensitive comments and behavior.

While Cotroneo’s apology and suspension are a step in the right direction, many listeners are calling for more action to be taken. Some have called for Cotroneo to be fired from his position, arguing that his comments were unacceptable and that he has no place in the broadcast booth.

Others have expressed concern about the broader issue of racism and discrimination in sports, calling on organizations and broadcasters to take more proactive steps to address the problem and promote a culture of inclusivity.

As the fallout from this incident continues to unfold, it is clear that the issue of racial sensitivity and inclusivity in sports broadcasting is one that is not going away anytime soon. While progress has been made in recent years, there is still much work to be done to ensure that all voices are heard and that all fans feel welcome and included in the sports world.