Yahoo! News reports that Pete Walker, pitching coach for the Toronto Blue Jays, entered a plea of not guilty at his court appearance on Monday.
Arden Zwelling of Sportsnet obtained court documents indicating that Walker waived his right to a pre-trial hearing, instead entering his plea through his attorney.
Police pulled over Walker after his vehicle was clocked, going 82 miles an hour in a 45 miles an hour zone late Friday night in Oldsmar, Florida. The Blue Jays had been training in the area in Dunedin before the Blue Jays were to face the New York Yankees on Saturday.
Law enforcement officials say that Walker showed intoxication, such as “poor balance, bloodshot eyes, and a strong odor of alcohol coming from his breath.”
The 52-year-old admitted to the officers that he had four beers before being pulled over. It was early Saturday morning when Walker was arrested. He was released later that morning on a $500 cash bond.
A short time later, Walker released a press statement indicating remorse for his actions and issued the following:
“I am very apologetic to the Blue Jays organization and Blue Jays fans, and my family. I am working with my attorney to get resolution to this right now. My apologies to my three daughters as well.” Walker said. “Right now, we’re working through that with my attorney for resolution, and that is the only comment I have right now.”
Walker has remained in his coaching position even after the incident. It is uncertain whether Walker will be suspended. When asked about potential punishment for Walker, team manager Charlie Montoyo told reporters that team officials are gathering information. “…so we’ll see,” Montoyo said.
