Royals president says Whit Merrifield ‘sorry’ for comments made when explaining vaccine decision

Fox News Flash top headlines are here. Check out what's clicking on Foxnews.com.

The Kansas City Royals are without 10 players in their four-game series against the Toronto Blue Jays due to Canada’s laws around the COVID-19 vaccine. 

While the Royals found a way to win the first game of the series on Thursday, much was made over some comments made by the players who would not be making the trip. 

Royals second baseman Whit Merrifield caused quite a stir on Wednesday, saying that if he was on a team that was in playoff contention he might consider getting the vaccine. 

Andrew Benintendi #16 of the Kansas City Royals talks to Whit Merrifield #15 of the Kansas City Royals during the game against the Houston Astros at Minute Maid Park on July 06, 2022 in Houston, Texas.  (Photo by Logan Riely/Getty Images)

"It’s what, based on the experiences and conversations and what I’ve seen, this is the conclusion I’ve come to," Merrifield said on Wednesday. "Right or wrong. I didn’t do it on a whim. It’s been a long thought process because again, I understand what Canada has in place right now. That’s the only reason I would think about getting it at this point. To go to Canada. 

ROYALS WITHOUT 10 PLAYERS IN SERIES AGAINST BLUE JAYS DUE TO VACCINATION STATUS

"That might change down the road. If something happens, and I happen to get on a team that has a chance to go play in Canada in the postseason, maybe that changes. But, as we sit here right now, I’m comfortable with my decision. My teammates support me and the rest of the guys in here who have made the same decision. And that’s that."

Whit Merrifield #15 of the Kansas City Royals turns a double play against the Houston Astros at Minute Maid Park on July 07, 2022 in Houston,