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Taubman, 34, a Syosset High School graduate, allegedly turned to the three and shouted “Thank God we got (reliever Roberto) Osuna! I’m so (expletive) glad we got Osuna!”
Osuna was accused and suspended for alleged domestic violence earlier this season before the Astros made a much-maligned move to pick him up. Taubman’s outburst ironically came after Osuna had blown a save earlier in the game before his team picked him up to claim victory.
The incident was initially reported by Sports Illustrated on Monday, Oct. 21, the day before the Astros started the World Series against the Washington Nationals.
The Astros initially declined to comment, and didn’t make Taubman available to the media, drawing national ire. They later issued a statement acknowledging that an incident occurred, but defended Taubman, saying, “our executive was supporting the player during a difficult time. His comments had everything to do about the game situation that just occurred and nothing else.”
The backlash from the incident eventually led to Taubman issuing a statement through the Astros.
“This past Saturday, during our clubhouse celebration, I used inappropriate language for which I am deeply sorry and embarrassed. In retrospect, I realize that my comments were unprofessional and inappropriate. My overexuberance in support of a player has been misinterpreted as a demonstration of a regressive attitude about an important social issue. Those that know me know that I am a progressive and charitable member of the community, and a loving and committed husband and father.”
It is unclear whether Taubman will be punished by Major League Baseball, which issued a statement.
“Domestic violence is extraordinarily serious and everyone in baseball must use care to not engage in any behavior — whether intentional or not — that could be construed as minimizing the egregiousness of an act of domestic violence,” the statement said. “We became aware of this incident through the Sports Illustrated article. The Astros have disputed Sports Illustrated’s characterization of the incident. MLB will interview those involved before commenting further.”
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