Mariners CEO says accusations from fired employee are unfounded

On Friday, Seattle Mariners CEO and chairman John Stanton informed employees that an internal review showed accusations of racism and sexism made by a former employee against three team officials are unfounded, reports The Athletic's Ken Rosenthal.

In an email Rosenthal obtained, Stanton said the team took the accusations made by former director of high performance Dr. Lorena Martin seriously.

"Our human resources and legal departments did a thorough internal review, which found there was no basis for the claims," Stanton wrote. "Major League Baseball has now launched its own investigation, which we fully support. We are confident the outside review will reach the same conclusion."

In an Instagram post on Monday, Martin said the Mariners have "major issues," and claimed general manager Jerry Dipoto, manager Scott Servais, and director of player development Andy McKay called Latinos "lazy, dumb and stupid, especially Dominicans."

The Mariners issued a statement following Martin's accusations.

"While it is our policy to not comment on personnel issues, we do feel it is important to respond to the outrageous, false claims made by her today on social media," the team said. "And to note that Martin did not make any of these false allegations until after she was relieved of her duties.

"The Mariners categorically deny that any member of our management or coaching staff made racist remarks regarding any of our players or staff. Additionally, we have not terminated (or threatened to terminate) any trainers during the offseason."

Martin, whose contract was terminated on Oct. 10, also claimed the Mariners wanted to negotiate a financial settlement to keep her quiet, and that she has email proof showing how they breached her contract.

Martin also said she is under advisement to refrain from speaking with the media, but added, "when ready, I will show proof."