Rockies beat writer apologizes to Kyle Kendrick for 'classless' tweet
Social media provide unique forums for members of the media to connect with their followers, but sometimes they can blur the lines of professionalism.
Colorado Rockies beat writer Patrick Saunders of the Denver Post admits that he overstepped the line on Sunday when covering the Denver Broncos' playoff game.
It's 13-9 here at Mile High between #Broncos and Steelers. Like the 7th inning of a #Rockies game at Coors with Kyle Kendrick pitching.
— Patrick Saunders (@psaundersdp) January 17, 2016
Although the Broncos eventually defeated the Pittsburgh Steelers, they performed poorly for a majority of the game. When describing the Broncos' play, Saunders compared it to Kendrick pitching late in a game at Coors Field, a simile he tagged as "juvenile" and "classless" upon reflection:
I was trying to be funny and draw attention to myself. It was a low blow and I regret it. It was unprofessional and petty. I heard through the grapevine that Kendrick read my tweet, and I imagine it bothered him.
Kendrick's first and only season with the Rockies in 2015 was the worst of his nine-year career. The right-hander posted a 7-13 record with a 6.32 ERA, 1.53 WHIP, and allowed 33 home runs.
While Kendrick's less-than-stellar season in Colorado is no secret, Saunders notes that he was a class act in his interactions with the media:
Let me add that Kendrick always treated me with respect and class. He answered my questions, and though he dodged the media a few times, he was a gentleman during a tough time.
Kendrick has been picked up by the Atlanta Braves in free agency this offseason, which means he and Saunders will only cross paths a few times next season.
However, in an era in which social media hosts a no-holds-barred, ruthless environment where compassion often has little influence, Saunders' apology is refreshing.
"I'll stand behind my stories about Kendrick's struggles as a pitcher, but he deserved better than my cheap shot via Twitter," Saunders writes. "I learned a lesson and I'm going to be a better journalist, and a better person, in the future."
