Justin Verlander Tweets Weak Explanation for Why He Barred Detroit Free Press Reporter After Loss

Justin Verlander still doesn't understand how the media works.

The Tigers-turned-Astros ace refused to speak to the media if the Detroit Free Press' Anthony Fenech was allowed to ask him questions after a tough loss at the hands of the Tigers. The Astros, seemingly out of options given they expected and needed Verlander to speak with the press, went along with this request. Fenech's complicated relationship with Verlander has overshadowed this midweek series, and despite a vindicating win for Detroit, it now takes centerstage entering Thursday night's affair as well.

Per Verlander himself, he declined to speak with Fenech specifically because of past 'unethical behavior'.

I declined to speak with the @freep rep last night because of his unethical behavior in the past. I reached out to the @freep multiple times before the game to notify them why and to give them an opportunity to have someone else there. Ironically they didn’t answer.
— Justin Verlander (@JustinVerlander) August 22, 2019

Per the BBWAA and the collective bargaining agreement, Verlander is required to speak with the media, and the press cannot be barred based on personal beliefs or past grievances. This makes Verlander's assertion in violation of such protocol, regardless of how the Astros or their ace want to disguise it.

Although I tried to avoid this situation altogether, I’ve still reached out to @freep multiple times today with no response. They’re still not interested in my side of the story.
— Justin Verlander (@JustinVerlander) August 22, 2019

Verlander's response essentially proves he doesn't understand the significance of his actions. First, the Free Press isn't going to fly out a new reporter all the way to Houston just because an (opposing!) player doesn't like him or her. Second, this shows a blatant disregard for the aforementioned policies which the players have long been held to. Why are you any different?

JV is a Tigers legend, and many fans will side with him over Fenech despite his status as a credentialed reporter, BBWAA member and his numerous appearances on MLB Network as a correspondent. But for a pitcher who has accomplished so much over the course of an incredible MLB career, this comes off as exceptionally weak.