Yunel Escobar Suspended Three Games For Eye-Black Slur

Toronto Blue Jays shortstop Yunel Escobar has been suspended three games for the homophobic slur displayed across his eye-black during Saturday's game, reports Chris Toman of MLB.com:

Escobar, who said it was the only time he has written the derogatory word on his eye-black stickers before, expressed remorse for his actions and said it wasn't directed at anyone in particular.

The slur that was displayed is a word often used among Latino players and was not intended to come across as offensive, according to Escobar.

Several representatives from the Blue Jays -- including Escobar, general manager Alex Anthopolous and manager John Farrell -- addressed the media yesterday afternoon with news of the suspension and a formal apology from Escobar.

The Blue Jays stated they were unaware of the statement written on Escobar's eye-black until after the game Saturday, and that internal discussions -- as well as a dialogue with the Commissioner's Office and the MLBPA -- led to the belief that a three-game suspension without pay was the best course of action.

The three days of salary lost by Escobar will be donated by the Blue Jays to the charity You Can Play and the Gay & Lesbian Alliance Against Defamation. Escobar will also take part in sensitivity training and an outreach initiative that teaches tolerance towards people of all sexual orientations.

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DId the Blue Jays and MLB handle the Escobar situation well?

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