Reynolds plans to sue ESPN over departure

BRISTOL, Conn. -- Harold Reynolds plans to sue ESPN over his departure from the network as a baseball analyst last summer.

Reynolds played 12 major league seasons and joined ESPN in 1996.

"I have tried everything possible to handle this situation quietly behind closed doors. After numerous conversations and multiple mediation discussions with ESPN executives, it is clear that ESPN had no intention of solving this problem amicably," Reynolds said in a statement.

"For 11 years, I served ESPN with enthusiasm and dedication. It is unfortunate that ESPN has handled this process in an unprofessional manner. At the end of the day, my integrity, reputation and family are my top priorities, and for those reasons I need to set the record straight and clear my name."

ESPN spokesman Josh Krulewitz said Monday that the network had been made aware that Reynolds either has filed a lawsuit or plans to in coming days.

"The suit is without merit," Krulewitz said. "We stand by our decision and have no further comment now that litigation has begun."