Atlanta Braves color analyst CJ Nitkowski made an on-air remark during the team's game on Thursday that has since gained traction online. While discussing the return of right fielder Eli White from the paternity list, Nitkowski stated, "He and his wife, they're just such great people. I said, 'We need more great people in this world. The more Whites, the better off we're going to be.'"
The comment, intended as a congratulatory remark for White and his family following the birth of their child, quickly circulated on social media platforms and was highlighted on the r/baseball Reddit page. Users on the platform shared reactions to Nitkowski's phrasing.
Nitkowski, a former major league pitcher, joined the Braves' commentary team. This is not the first time Nitkowski has been involved in a controversy. In 2018, he apologized after liking a tweet from the Proud Boys, a far-right group, stating at the time that he did not endorse their views.
Neither the Braves organization nor Nitkowski have issued a public statement regarding the recent on-air remark. The Braves were set to begin a series against the Cardinals on Friday.