Michael Wilbon has seen a lot of different kinds of sporting events in his day. The longtime Washington Post columnist and "Pardon the Interruption" star has been covering sports for nearly 50 years. But there's one thing Wilbon won't cover: the Savannah Bananas.
The "PTI" star admitted on Tuesday night's show that he's refusing to even acknowledge the startup baseball league which has developed millions of fans across the United States and even around the globe.
Wilbon was discussing former Chicago Cubs ace Kerry Wood's behind-the-back pitch that he made during an appearance at a Savannah Bananas game.
Jim Dedmon-Imagn Images
The behind-the-back pitch received a shoutout on "PTI."
"He's thrown out ceremonial first pitches as recent as a few months ago, and I'm sure he can thrown out a strike," Wilbon said. "Tony, I'm not acknowledging that Banana stuff, I'm not. They can sell out Wrigley Field from now until the cows come home. I'm not down for that."
Tony Kornheiser then replied, "You'd be the only one not acknowledging them, because it's entertainment and it sells out."
Wilbon facing backlash for his opinion on the Bananas
The Savannah Bananas have a lot of supporters - and many of them are not happy with Wilbon.
"As the official get of my lawn guy here, even I need to say Wilbon is just a grumpy old sports reporter! If he wants to say all the trick stuff, the different rules, and the pageantry isn't a part of the game fine. But admit its entertaining, admit the guys are incredible athletes," one fan wrote.
"Can't stand this guy. I can't believe that after all the people that have been fired at ESPN, he is still there. Someone who never played sports or was the last pick thinks his opinion matters," one fan added.
"I find baseball a bit boring but the Bananas have always been my favorite team and baseball entertainment," one fan added.
"Get used to it such a bitter old man," one fan added.
The Bananas are here to stay, like it or not, Wilbon.
