© Jerome Miron | 2020 Oct 27
It wasn’t a false positive.
Major League Baseball released a statement on Wednesday morning saying that Justin Turner’s decision to celebrate with his teammates during their World Series celebration after he tested positive for COVID-19 was his and his alone, and that he defiantly chose not to abide by the league’s COVID protocols.
It is unclear at this time how the league will go about punishing Turner, who was pulled in the 8th inning of Wednesday’s Game 6. Here’s the statement in full:
In response to inquiries, Major League Baseball issued the following statement today regarding the circumstances involving Los Angeles Dodgers third baseman Justin Turner:
“Immediately upon receiving notice from the laboratory of a positive test, protocols were triggered, leading to the removal of Justin Turner from last night’s game. Turner was placed into isolation for the safety of those around him. However, following the Dodgers’ victory, it is clear that Turner chose to disregard the agreed-upon joint protocols and the instructions he was given regarding the safety and protection of others. While a desire to celebrate is understandable, Turner’s decision to leave isolation and enter the field was wrong and put everyone he came in contact with at risk. When MLB Security raised the matter of being on the field with Turner, he emphatically refused to comply.
“The Commissioner’s Office is beginning a full investigation into this matter and will consult with the Players Association within the parameters of the joint 2020 Operations Manual.
“Last night, nasal swabs were conducted on the Dodgers’ traveling party. Both the Rays and Dodgers were tested again today and their travel back to their home cities will be determined after being approved by the appropriate authorities.”
