Imus’ comments lead Ripken to back out

THE WASHINGTON TIMES

Hall of Famer Cal Ripken canceled an appearance on Don Imus' radio and television program scheduled for later this week because of comments the talk show host made about Rutgers' women's basketball team.

Imus last week called the team's members "some nappy-headed hos" while talking to "Imus in the Morning" producer Bernard McGurk about the NCAA women's championship game between Tennessee and Rutgers.

The remarks prompted condemnation from Rutgers and the NCAA and demands from the National Association of Black Journalists and others that Imus be fired. Imus apologized Friday for what he called "an insensitive and ill-conceived remark."

Ripken, who is promoting the release of two books, decided to cancel his appearance on the show because of Imus' comments, according to his publicist, John Maroon.

"In light of recent remarks made on the program, Cal will not appear on the show as part of his national book tour," Maroon said.

The former Baltimore Orioles great is scheduled to appear at Camden Yards today to throw out the first pitch before the Orioles' home opener against the Detroit Tigers. Ripken, who will be inducted into the National Baseball Hall of Fame in July, is releasing two books this week, "Get in the Game" and "The Longest Season."

-- Thom Loverro