Major League Baseball

Morrison files grievance over demotion

Published Sep. 15, 2011 1:00 a.m. ET

foxsports

Florida Marlins outfielder Logan Morrison has filed a grievance against the team, claiming he was demoted to the minors last month as a punishment in violation of the collective bargaining agreement, ESPN reported Thursday.

The 24-year-old was unexpectedly sent to Triple-A New Orleans Aug. 13, despite batting third in the Marlins' order in the previous game.

"I'm doing this because I'm standing up for what's right," Morrison told ESPN.com. "If I thought it was because of my performance on the field, then I wouldn't be filing a grievance."

On the day of his demotion, Morrison had failed to attend a mandatory meet-and-greet with season-ticket holders.

Morrison said he had consulted with the team's union representative, Wes Helms, who informed him he did not have to attend. The Marlins released Helms, a veteran infielder, at the same time they demoted Morrison.

The Marlins have not commented on Morrison's grievance, which argues the Marlins violated the collective bargaining agreement by demoting him without just cause.

Shortly after the demotion, Marlins president of baseball operations Larry Beinfest said Morrison needed to learn about "being a major leaguer," suggesting the move was not related to on-field performance. At the time, Morrison was second on the team in home runs and third in RBI.

If the matter is not settled, it would go before an arbitrator. Morrison would likely be seeking to recoup lost wages from his 12-day stint at Triple-A, according to the report.