Colin Cowherd to 'no longer appear on ESPN' in wake of remarks

Former ESPN radio host Colin Cowherd will no longer appear on the network in the wake of his comments about the Dominican Republic, according to ESPN spokesman Mike Soltys.

Former ESPN radio host Colin Cowherd will no longer appear on the network in the wake of his comments about the Dominican Republic, according to ESPN spokesman Mike Soltys.

Major League Baseball released a statement on Friday condemning Cowherd's remarks, which he made earlier this week on his radio show, and calling for an apology.

On Thursday, Cowherd was talking about criticism of Miami Marlins manager Dan Jennings's lack of managerial experience and the idea that baseball is a complex game when he made remarks about players from the Dominican Republic. 

“It’s too complex? I’ve never bought into that ‘baseball is too complex,’” said Cowherd. “Really? A third of the sport is from the Dominican Republic. The Dominican Republic has not been known in my lifetime as having world-class academic abilities. A lot of those kids come from rough backgrounds and have not had opportunities academically that other kids from other countries have. Baseball is like any sport. It’s mostly instincts.”

• DEITSCH: Colin Cowherd to Fox Sports, what's next for ESPN Radio, Fox​

On Friday, Cowherd addressed his comments, saying he “could’ve made the point without using one country” and adding that he picked the Dominican Republic because “they've furnished baseball with so many great players.”

Later Friday, Cowherd apologized for the remarks, saying, “I did not intend to offend anyone w my comments. I realize my choice words was poor and not reflective of who I am. I am sorry.”

On Sunday, it was reported that Cowherd would be leaving the network at the end of his current contract. Sports Business Journalreported that Cowherd’s contract was scheduled to terminate July 31.

Toronto Blue Jays outfielder Jose Bautista called out Cowherd on Twitter on Thursday, asking for an explanation of his comments. 

- Molly Geary and Will Green