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White Sox's Tony La Russa Stands by Yermin Mercedes Criticism: 'Respect the Game'

Chicago White Sox manager Tony La Russa continues to insist that Yermin Mercedes was in the wrong for swinging at a 3-0 pitch in the ninth inning of Monday's 16-4 win over the Minnesota Twins.

"Do you think you need more [runs] to win, you keep pushing," La Russa told reporters on Wednesday. "If you think you have enough, respect the game and opposition. Sportsmanship.''

La Russa called the discussion around Mercedes' homer "much ado about a little bit." He added that he's not aware of any potential blowback from his own players:

Daryl Van Schouwen

If there is blowback in White Sox clubhouse, Tony La Russa is unaware.