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Cleveland Indians starting pitcher Carlos Carrasco delivers against the Houston Astros during the first inning of a baseball game Wednesday, Sept. 7, 2016, in Cleveland. (AP / Ron Schwane) |
Citing three people familiar with the decision, The New York
Times reported Sunday night that the team is moving away from a name considered
racist for decades. The Indians have been internally discussing a potential
name change for months.
A team spokesman told The Associated Press the franchise has
no immediate comment on the report.
The Times said the team could make a formal announcement
later this week. It’s not known when the name change will take effect or if the
team has settled on a new moniker.
Cleveland’s move away from Indians follows a similar
decision earlier this year by the NFL’s Washington Football Team, which was
previously known as the Redskins.
For years, Native American groups and others have protested
against Cleveland’s use of Indians as its name as well as other imagery used by
the American League charter franchise founded in 1901. Last year, the team
removed the contentious Chief Wahoo logo from its caps and jerseys, but the
smiling, cartoonish mascot has remained popular and merchandise is still sold
bearing its image.
The Indians have dealt with a backlash from fans upset over
Chief Wahoo’s removal and the club is certain to hear more with the decision to
change its name.
“Oh no! What is going on?” President Donald Trump tweeted.
“This is not good news, even for ”Indians”. Cancel culture at work!”
In July, just hours after Washington’s plans became known
after being pressured by several sponsors, including FedEx which holds naming
rights to the football’s team’s stadium, Cleveland owner Paul Dolan released a
statement saying the team would review “the best path forward with our team
name.”
In the months since, the team has consulted players, front
office members, coaching staff, community leaders, share holders and Native
American groups.
A few days after Dolan’s statement, Indians manager Terry
Francona said it was time to “move forward” with the name change.
“I’ve been thinking about it and been thinking about it
before we put out that statement,” said Francona, who has been with the club
since 2013. “I know in the past, when I’ve been asked about, whether it’s our
name or the Chief Wahoo, I think I would usually answer and say I know that
we’re never trying to be disrespectful.
“And I still feel that way. But I don’t think that’s a good
enough answer today. I think it’s time to move forward. It’s a very difficult
subject. It’s also delicate.” -AP