A St. Louis-based agent who allegedly filmed his clients with a hidden camera was suspended by the Major League Baseball Players’ Association and fired by his agency, according to multiple reports.
CSE Talent, the agency headed by Lonnie Cooper, said in a statement Wednesday that it had fired Jason Wood, who had headed its baseball division since last April.
The Associated Press reported Jason Wood was fired by suspended Wednesday by the Major League Baseball Players Association, which was informed of the allegation earlier in the day by CSE. The union, which certifies agents, said it will give Wood a chance to respond.
FanRag Sports, citing multiple people familiar with the matter, reported that the union is investigating Wood for allegedly filming clients while they used his shower.
“For over 32 years, CSE Talent has prided itself on our moral and ethical standards and have built a solid reputation within the industry,” agency president Danny Martoe said in a statement to Yahoo Sports. “We take pride in working with people who represent those values. It’s unfortunate that CSE aligned itself with someone who didn’t uphold these same standards and therefore we chose to terminate with cause Wood's employment.”
In a text message with Sports Director Frank Cusumano, Wood denied the allegations.
The allegations that have surfaced today are absurd and untrue. Over the past 13 years I have worked tirelessly to build a successful agency through integrity and hard work. I am disappointed that there are those who have chosen to spread such irresponsible and harmful rumors.
Wood represented Jake Odorizzi, David Phelps and Cody Asche who are all from the St. Louis area.
Wood played baseball at Granite City High School and St. Louis University.
USA Today and The Associated Press contributed to this story.
