In an extensive report by The Athletic, a woman, who spoke on condition of anonymity, accuses Callaway – who was manager of the New York Mets for two seasons – of “putting his crotch in his face” while the journalist was conducting an interview with Callaway.
Another reporter claims Callaway said he would share information about his former Mets team if the reporter got drunk with him.
Two of the women interviewed said they had been warned about Callaway’s repeated inappropriate behavior, according to The Athletic. A reporter told the publication that Callaway’s lewd behavior “was the worst kept secret in sports.”
CNN has repeatedly tried to contact Callaway for comment, including inquiries through the Angels.
Athletic reports that Callaway offered the following statement when they filed the charges:
“Instead of rushing to respond to these general allegations of which I have just been acquainted, I look forward to the opportunity to give more specific answers. Any relationship in which I was engaged has been consensual and my conduct was not intended in no way to be disrespectful to the women involved. I am married and my wife has been informed of these general allegations. “
Major League Baseball (MLB) told CNN that it is initiating an investigation into Callaway.
Earlier Tuesday, MLB released a statement saying it “had never been notified of any allegations of sexual misconduct by Mickey Callaway.”
The Angels say they will collaborate with the league office in their investigation into the allegations.
“Reported behavior violates the values and policies of the Angels Organization,” the team stated.
Callaway was the Mets manager during the 2018 and 2019 seasons. Sandy Alderson, who has chaired the team since last year and has been its general manager since 2010-2018, said in a statement that “he was dismayed by the actions denounced.”
“I was unaware of the conduct described in the story at the time of Mickey’s hiring or at any time during my tenure as CEO. We have already initiated a review of our hiring processes to ensure that our new employee review is more comprehensive and complete. “Alderson said in a statement.
In a statement Monday, new Mets owner Steve Cohen said: “The conduct reported today to The Athletic is completely unacceptable and would never be tolerated under my ownership.”
The Cleveland Indians, who employed Callaway as a pitching coach for five seasons between 2013-2017, said in a statement that the allegations against Callaway were first known on Monday.
“We are currently reviewing the matter internally and in consultation with Major League Baseball to determine the next appropriate steps,” the team statement said. “Our organization does not unequivocally accept this type of behavior. We seek to create an inclusive work environment where everyone, regardless of gender, can feel safe and comfortable doing their job.”
CNN’s Amir Vera contributed to this report.