Detroit Tigers Release Statement on Sex Abuse Allegations Concerning Broadcaster Craig Monroe

(Warning: Details of sexual abuse included.)

Baseball analyst and former Detroit Tigers outfielder Craig Monroe is on indefinite leave from Bally Sports Detroit after allegations of sexual assault appeared on social media in June. Monroe, who played five seasons with the Tigers, entered this season as the network's lead analyst. He first joined Bally Sports Detroit in 2012, not long after retiring in 2009 after nine seasons.

According to a statement provided to Awful Announcing, BSD deliberately removed Monroe from broadcasts since June 9 as a result of the newfound allegations. The accusations against Monroe included rape and child molestation, the outlet relayed.

BALTIMORE, MARYLAND - APRIL 21:  Detroit Tigers tv announcer Craig Monroe looks on during batting practice prior to a baseball game against the Detroit Tigers at Oriole Park at Camden Yards on April 21, 2023 in Baltimore, Maryland.  (Photo by Mitchell Layton/Getty Images)

A woman posted on social media that Monroe began sexually abusing her when she was 12 years old — amid Monroe's days playing in the minor leagues. She alleged that Monroe sexually assaulted her from the time she was a child to an adult and coerced her to be a prostitute for Monroe's companions, including former Tigers reliever Joel Zumayav.

Details from the woman's account revealed that she repeatedly reached out to the team and network. 

The Tigers joined Bally Sports' statement Monday. Monroe has yet to address the allegations publicly.

"Bally Sports Detroit and the Tigers are aware of the social media allegations and take them seriously," the joint statement read. "As previously stated, Mr. Monroe has not been on the broadcast schedule and that will continue on an indefinite basis. We will have no further comment and any questions should be directed to Mr. Monroe."

Detroit Tigers' Left Fielder, Craig Monroe, dejectedly leaves the field after the final out of their game against the Chicago White Sox August 13, 2006 at U.S. Cellular Field in Chicago, Illinois. The Tigers were defeated by the White Sox 7-3 and were swept in their 3-game series. (Photo by Chuck Rydlewski/Getty Images)

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