Chris “Mad Dog” Russo has taken an unusual stance on a controversial issue, standing firm on a contentious hill.
On his SiriusXM show, Russo dismissed the fallout that led to Tony Clark‘s resignation as head of the MLB Players Association, questioning why an inappropriate relationship with Clark’s sister-in-law was even worth discussing.
“She’s in her 50s. What’s inappropriate about that?” Russo asserted. “This is something that happens all the time.”
This alone raised eyebrows. Russo pressed on.
He framed the scenario as more of a personal family issue rather than a concern for the union, dismissing the fact that Clark allegedly facilitated her job within the MLBPA. When his producer brought up this crucial detail, Russo showed little inclination to elaborate.
Russo quickly shifted his focus.
He speculated that Clark’s resignation was a “distraction,” suggesting it was intended to divert attention away from a federal investigation into MLBPA’s financial practices and operations. Russo acknowledged that he could be mistaken but still voiced his opinion.
“He didn’t engage in anything illegal,” Russo remarked. “He made a poor choice. He isn’t going to jail.”
Such a viewpoint misses the broader context. The issue transcended the relationship—it was fundamentally about power dynamics, hiring practices, and judgment at the leadership level, especially with critical bargaining talks on the horizon.
The MLBPA acted quickly. With collective bargaining negotiations approaching and concerns about a lockout already surfacing, the union promptly appointed Bruce Meyer as interim executive director.
Mad Dog might not see the larger implications. The players’ association clearly does.
