Blue Jays cut pitcher Anthony Bass after latest anti-LGBTQ+ comments

The Toronto Blue Jays cut pitcher Anthony Bass on Friday, a day after a reliever right-hander said he didn’t find an anti-LGBTQ+ social media post hateful.

The move came just hours before Buss was scheduled to catch the ceremonial first pitch from Toronto LGBT activist Lezley Lee Cum ahead of Friday’s game against Minnesota as the Blue Jays kicked off their fourth annual Pride Weekend celebration.

The team now has seven days to trade Bass or waive him.

Buss apologized ahead of the May 30 game against Milwaukee, a day after he shared a post on his Instagram calling for a boycott of Target and Bud Light against LGBTQ+ because of the support they have given to the LGBTQ+ community. Both companies are facing the fallout from these campaigns, which have included hostile and homophobic criticism and calls from LGBTQ+ activists not to give in to pressure.

Bass, who was booed by Toronto fans during his two home appearances after the apology, spoke to a media panel ahead of Thursday’s win over Houston, saying he sticks to his “personal beliefs.”

He also said he is “working hard” to educate himself, including meeting with the executive director of activist group Pride Toronto.

Bass, 35, is a 12-year veteran who also played in Japan. He was 0-0 with a 4.95 ERA in 22 games.

To replace Bass, Toronto activated right-hander Mitch White (right elbow) from the 60-day injured list.