Inflammatory old tweets surface from Josh Hader’s Twitter account; pitcher apologizes after All-Star Game

JR Radcliffe
Milwaukee Journal Sentinel
Josh Hader became one of the biggest stories at the All-Star Game, and not because he allowed a three-run homer but because of tweets from his past.

Milwaukee Brewers left-hander Josh Hader served up a three-run home run in the All-Star Game on Tuesday night, and though he was saved from the loss on the field, he was the subject of some troubling news off it.

A series of tweets composed by his verified Twitter account in 2011 and 2012 that included inflammatory language began circulating during the game. (Warning: link to this story about the tweets includes graphic language)

The tweets include racist and homophobic language. Some appear to be a reproduction of lyrics or quotes – including the song “Durr She Go” by Juicy J and “Tha Carter IV Intro” by Lil Wayne. Another quote appeared to come from the movie “Semi-Pro.”

Hader’s account was quickly locked from public view Tuesday night. He responded to questions about the tweets after the game.

Hader turned 24 years old in April and would have been 17 or 18 at the time of the tweets.

The impact was felt even at the stadium in Washington D.C., according to Yahoo Sports columnist Jeff Passan.

After the game, teammate Lorenzo Cain spoke briefly to the media about Hader and said "I know Hader. He’s a great guy. I know he’s a great teammate. I’m fine. Everybody will be OK. We’ll move on from it."

Hader has been a revelation for the Brewers in his all-star 2018 season, posting a 1.50 ERA in the first half with 89 strikeouts in 48 innings.