MLB investigating Turner incident after he 'chose to disregard' protocols

Major League Baseball will be looking into Los Angeles Dodgers third baseman Justin Turner's return to the field Tuesday to celebrate a World Series title with his teammates after exiting Game 6 due to a positive COVID-19 test.

"It is clear that Turner chose to disregard the agreed-upon joint protocols and the instructions he was given regarding the safety and the protection of others," MLB said in a statement Wednesday.

"While a desire to celebrate is understandable, Turner's decision to leave isolation and enter the field was wrong and put everyone he came in contact with at risk. When MLB security raised the matter of being on the field with Turner, he emphatically refused to comply.

"The commissioner's office is beginning a full investigation into this matter and will consult with the players association within parameters of the joint 2020 operations manual."

The league also acknowledged tests were administered following the incident.

"Last night, nasal swabs were conducted on the Dodgers' traveling party," MLB said. "Both the Rays and the Dodgers were tested again today and their travel back to their home cities will be determined after being approved by the appropriate authorities."

The first round of postgame tests didn't provide any additional positives among players on the two teams, according to Bill Shaikin of the Los Angeles Times, who adds one Rays family member tested positive.