Little League Rep Addresses Viral ‘Cotton’ Controversy, Says There Was ‘No Ill Intent’

The moment in question aired this weekend as part of the broadcast of the MLB Little League Classic game. A rep says there was "no ill intent."

August 23, 2022

A viral clip showing a player in the Little League World Series having pieces of toy stuffing placed on his head has now received a response from league officials, who told outlets on Tuesday their subsequent inquiry into the incident showed there was not any “ill intent” from those involved.

In the clip, as seen below, fellow players are seen putting the stuffing on their fellow Iowa teammate’s head during a game this Sunday between the Orioles and the Red Sox. Criticism over the incident on social media argued that it looked like cotton was being placed on the player’s head, though league officials have disputed this.

In a statement shared with NBC News and other outlets, a Little League World Series rep acknowledged how the moment in question “could be perceived as racially insensitive.” However, following talks with the player’s parents and coaches involved in Sunday’s proceedings, it’s the league’s determination that there was “no ill intent behind the action.” According to the rep, who also said reviewing photos of the game was part of their inquiry, multiple players were engaged in the same activity, although “only one player” was ultimately seen on the ESPN broadcast.

Complex has reached out to a rep for the Little League World Series for additional comment. This story may be updated.