On August 10, 1993 — New York Mets P Bret Saberhagen admits to having sprayed bleach at three reporters on July 27th. He agrees to donate one day’s pay – $15,384.61 – to the Eye Research Foundation.

Saberhagen said his “practical joke” went astray after being identified Tuesday by the New York Mets as the player who sprayed bleach on two reporters two weeks ago.

Tom Pedulla, chairman of the local BBWAA chapter, said he “appreciates” the disciplinary measures. He added that he does not yet know how the money will be distributed and his group looks forward to an atmosphere of “mutual respect in the workplace.”

Saberhagen initially denied spraying the bleach and threw a clubhouse tantrum Friday night.

This was the second time this summer the 29-year-old right-hander denied involvement in a clubhouse incident before reluctantly accepting responsibility. On July 7 he threw firecrackers behind reporters who were interviewing pitcher Anthony Young.

Saberhagen said bleach episode on July 27 was designed as a prank and he did not plan to harm anyone. He apologized to the reporters — Dave D’Alessandro of The Record and Mark Herrmann of Newsday — and said he would reimburse them for any damage to their clothes.

“I am sorry for the accident and the failure to come forward, both of which have obviously hurt the club’s relations with the media,” Saberhagen said in a statement.

 
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