Major League umpire Joe West is receiving pushback from his own union over his recent controversial comments about the coronavirus pandemic. Jake Roth-USA TODAY Sports

MLB umpires' union rebukes Joe West after controversial coronavirus comments

By Zac Wassink | Last updated 7/9/20

On Thursday, the Major League Baseball Umpires Association seemingly responded to controversial comments made by veteran umpire Joe West earlier this week.

As noted by Jason Wilson of The Score, the union said:

"Recent public comments about the current coronavirus pandemic do not in any way reflect the position of the Major League Baseball Umpires Association.

"Our nation, and the world, has suffered greatly from this deadly virus. In the midst of continued suffering, umpires are attempting to do our part to bring the great game of baseball back onto the field and into the homes of fans everywhere.

"The MLBUA fully supports the health and safety protocols agreed to by MLB and the MLBPA, and we have agreed to make dramatic changes to our usual working conditions in an effort to navigate this unprecedented season."

The union did not mention West by name.

In a piece published by The Athletic on Tuesday, West, who is 67-years-old and high-risk for COVID-19, said:

“I don’t believe in my heart that all these deaths have been from the coronavirus. I believe it may have contributed to some of the deaths. I said, 'I’m not going to opt out. I’m going to work. And I’m going to work until you take me off the field or I get hurt, whatever. I’m working.'"

Per ESPN, umpires who pass coronavirus testing protocols can begin working scrimmages and camp sessions on Sunday.

Opening Day for the 60-game MLB season played amid the uncontrolled virus outbreak is July 23.

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