Bradley apologizes for disparaging remarks

CHICAGO, Sept. 23 (UPI) -- Chicago Cubs outfielder Milton Bradley apologized Wednesday for comments he made last week that resulted in his suspension for the remainder of the season.

Bradley, who signed a three-year, $30 million contract last winter, made a series of disparaging remarks about the Cubs in an interview published in the Daily Herald of Arlington Heights, Ill.

"You understand why they haven't won here in 100 years," Bradley was quoted as saying. "It's just not a positive environment. I need a stable, healthy, enjoyable environment."

The comments led General Manager Jim Hendry to suspend Bradley for the final 15 days of the season.

"I chose Chicago as a free agent because I wanted to be part of finally bringing a championship to the Cubs' fans," Bradley said in a statement Wednesday. "I expected to have a great season and I am deeply disappointed by my performance and the team's struggles.

"I played every game with everything that I had and wanted to desperately win. My frustration and disappointment boiled over and I said and did certain things that I regret. In hindsight, I wish that I handled certain things differently and I apologize for those things that did not work out for the better.

"The air has been cleared and we all want to move on and look forward to better days."