*Photo from NBC*
After the Los Angeles Dodgers won the world series in 6 games against the Tampa Bay Rays, Justin Turner made headlines. After Turner was removed from game 6 and placed in isolation due to a positive COVID-19 test, he was back on the field for the celebration, without a mask, and without social distancing. In the championship photo, he was seen maskless sitting next to manager Dave Roberts, who is at high risk for COVID-19 due to a previous cancer diagnosis.
Now, Major League Baseball has opened an investigation into the extent of Turner's wrongdoing, and if any Dodgers players or staff members assisted Turner in the process. Turner could face a hefty fine, and possibly a suspension, for violating the guidelines, even though there is no precedent for a suspension.
MLB released a statement on the matter, saying that "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."
MLB also commented on the testing done to both the Dodgers and Rays after the game, saying that "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." At this time, the Dodgers and Rays have both gone back to their respective cities.
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