MLB suspends Giants CEO Baer through July 1
Commissioner Robert D. Manfred, Jr. announced Tuesday that San Francisco Giants President & Chief Executive Officer Larry Baer has been suspended without pay through and including July 1, 2019. Baer’s leave of absence, which commenced on March 4, 2019, will be converted to an unpaid suspension.
During the period of his suspension, Baer shall have no involvement in the operations of the Giants. The club shall be operated by an interim control person appointed by the ownership group in consultation with the Commissioner. Baer will be required to undergo an evaluation by an expert to determine an appropriate treatment and counseling plan.
Commissioner Manfred issued the following statement regarding the discipline:
“At my direction, the Department of Investigations conducted an investigation into the March 1, 2019 video-recorded incident involving Larry Baer. I also personally met with Mr. Baer. Based on my review of the results of the investigation, I have concluded that Mr. Baer’s conduct was unacceptable under MLB policies and warrants discipline. In determining the appropriate level of discipline, I find that Mr. Baer should be held to a higher standard because as a leader he is expected to be a role model for others in his organization and community. Based on my conversation with Mr. Baer, it is clear that he regrets what transpired and takes responsibility for his conduct.”
Statement from Larry Baer:
"I respect and accept the Commissioner's decision, and appreciate the fair and thorough process undertaken by MLB and the Giants,.
"I made a serious mistake that I sincerely regret and I am truly sorry for my actions. My unacceptable behavior fell well short of what must be demanded of every person, particularly someone in my position and role in the community.
"I will now immediately begin the significant work ahead of me to listen and learn from my mistakes and to seek professional advice. I am committed to doing what it takes to earn the trust and respect of the many people impacted by my actions."
Statement from San Francisco Giants:
"We thank Commissioner Rob Manfred and the staff at Major League Baseball for their timely and careful review and assessment of the matter involving Giants CEO Larry Baer. We share the Commissioner’s concern and disappointment in Mr. Baer’s conduct as it does not represent the values of the Giants organization.
"We also want to thank the fans, partners and members of the community who have taken the time to reach out to us to express their perspectives on the matter. We very much value and respect their sentiments.
"The Commissioner has imposed what we believe to be appropriate disciplinary measures and we will work with Major League Baseball and Mr. Baer to ensure that all aspects of the disciplinary program are completed. Mr. Baer has apologized for his unacceptable behavior and has recommitted himself to undergo the necessary counseling program to ensure that this never happens again.
"During his suspension, the Giants executive team will manage the day to day operations of the Club and will report to Rob Dean, the Board’s designated representative and acting CEO. Mr. Dean will continue serve as the Giants’ interim control person with Major League Baseball.
"The Board will also make changes to the Club’s corporate governance structure and will designate a new permanent Major League Baseball control person. Upon Mr. Baer’s return, he will remain CEO and President."