WATCH: Russell showered with boos in first at-bat since returning from suspension |
Having served the remainder of his 40-game suspension for domestic violence and taken part in a brief minor-league stint, Chicago Cubs infielder
Addison Russell returned to the Cubs' lineup on Wednesday. With the Cubs taking on the Miami Marlins at Wrigley Field, Russell received a mixed welcome when he stepped into the batter's box for the first time in the third inning.
While some fans clapped and cheered, others gave Russell a standing ovation. However, the main sound coming from the fans in attendance was that of booing, as a cacophony of boos rained down on Russell in his first appearance in a Cubs uniform since MLB suspended him for 40 games last September. Addison Russell’s first plate appearance. Definitely no standing ovation, sounded like more boos than cheers #Cubs pic.twitter.com/HXz5zsiloS Addison Russell comes to the plate; a lot of boos to say the least. pic.twitter.com/YYcAx5Zch8 Russell started at second base in the contest, with Javier Baez continuing to start at Russell's usual position of shortstop. After Russell grounded out to end the fourth frame, he took the brunt of more booing while heading back to the dugouot. Prior to the game, Cubs president of baseball operations Theo Epstein said in a press conference that Russell "doesn't deserve to be met with an unconditionally warm welcome," and Cubs supporters certainly did not give him one. Addison Russell's first at-bat of the season is a strikeout.
Theo Epstein spoke about his return: "He doesn't deserve to be met with an unconditionally warm welcome and open arms." pic.twitter.com/YE5cK5Ykj5
