It was the F-Bomb Heard Around the Baseball World
After the Los Angeles Dodgers defeated the San Diego Padres Friday night 2-0 to advance to the NLCS, Dodgers third baseman Kiké Hernandez spoke with Ken Rosenthal for a post-game interview. And, one of his answers was not exactly family-friendly.
The Interview that Ended with an F-Bomb
Asked what is different about this year’s Dodgers team, Hernandez first asked Rosenthal if they were live, Rosenthal said “yes,” and then Hernandez said: “The fact that we don’t give a f—.”
The interview ended immediately after that.
Consequences for Kiké Hernandez’s F-Bomb
### Can Kiké Hernandez be penalized for his F-bomb?
Technically, MLB can penalize a player for any conduct “not to be in the best interests” of baseball. However, there is no modern precedent for a player getting fined for simply saying the F-word.
Furthermore, the FCC does not punish people for violating federal law banning certain profane language on television.
Can Fox Get in Trouble for Airing the F-Bomb?
Yes.
According to the FCC, use of profane language that is considered “grossly offensive” and a public nuisance on broadcast TV can lead to an admonishment/warning, a fine, or a revocation of the broadcaster’s license. The latter will not happen in this case, but Fox could get an admonishment or fine from the FCC for having the F-bomb heard on their airwaves.
Conclusion
While Kiké Hernandez may have dropped one of George Carlin’s seven forbidden words on live TV, it’s unlikely that he will face serious consequences from MLB or the FCC. Fox, on the other hand, may face penalties for airing the profane language.
FAQs
Q: Can Kiké Hernandez be fined or suspended by MLB or the FCC?
A: No, there is no modern precedent for a player getting fined or suspended for simply saying the F-word on live TV.
Q: Can Fox be penalized for airing the F-bomb?
A: Yes, the FCC can issue an admonishment, fine, or even revoke Fox’s broadcast license for airings profane language on their channel.
Q: Will Kiké Hernandez’s comment have any long-term consequences?
A: It’s unlikely that his comment will have any long-term consequences, but it may be remembered as a memorable moment in sports history.
