Cubs SS Russell: 'I have to respect' fans' criticism
Chicago Cubs shortstop Addison Russell seemed to change his tune Friday, one day after his "that's on them" comment toward fans who booed him after his return from a suspension for violating Major League Baseball's domestic abuse policy.
"Everyone is entitled to doing whatever they want to do, think whatever they want to think, say whatever they want to say," Russell, 25, said to reporters Friday morning. "The reaction to me, I have to respect that. My actions are what they are. I have to be responsible for them."
Russell's suspension started last season after his former wife revealed details of a toxic relationship. Fans called for him to be released, but the Cubs brought him back this season on a one-year, $3.4 million deal.
Upon his return Wednesday, Cubs fans showered Russell with boos. His reaction to the Chicago Sun-Times centered more around the Cubs' attempts to win baseball games.
"If hometown fans want to boo someone that's trying to help bring the team a World Series again, then that's on them," Addison said, in part.
Friday brought a different perspective.
"I have nothing but respect for the fans," Russell said. "It's a goal to get the respect of the fans back. I just wish it could be on different terms."
--Field Level Media
