Speaking as a former journalist, what is missing here is context.
The fact other journalists saw it happen means it probably happened. But, again, what was the context? Reporters who saw it may have just seen Taubman shouting about Osuna in front of the reporters. He may have been defending the guy after questions about domestic violence.
There are also a few things at play here: alcohol, celebrations and journalist access. Alcohol obviously can lead to bad decisions. At some point, the Astros needed to close their locker room. Also, all personnel needed to be alerted to have a good time, but to be in their best behavior. Always assume mics are hot, cameras are rolling and everything is in record when journalists are present. So, the Astros screwed up.
Now, that being said, this reporter had carried the torch for the domestic violence cause. She has taken the situation and put that spin in it. We don't know Taubman's intention about the comment, but to make that leap is an interesting one. It's like the old Office Space Jump to Conclusions game.
Obviously, the situation made a scene in the locker room. Again, we need to know context, and the reporter presented context as she saw it. Astros PR now has additional work to do because they called the article "misleading" and others have claimed to have seen it. They need to provide more context now publicly to clarify what happened and why it is misleading.
It's just ANOTHER distraction. In 2017, we had the incident with Yuli that was an issue during the WS. Here we go again. This is another opportunity for the Astros to be villains.
I love this team.
As for the 48 hour delay: an article like that with those accusations had to go through several hoops. The reporter had to write it. Her editor had to approve it/edit it. Since the reporter was part of the story and it is inflammatory, SI's legal consultants had to determine the risk of libel. That would constitute the delay.
As always, there are at least two sides to every story and experience. IMO, Taubman should have been more careful. You never know how something may be interpreted, even if you are messing around. The reporter may have been extra sensitive and read into things.
Astros need to clarify their statement and explain what happened. Taubman will likely need to issue an apology. The Astros should back him and as was said earlier, treat it as a teachable moment.
Sadly, I see this issue carrying through the WS, and being a story line.
