Baseball player Torii Hunter has cited opposition to same-sex marriage as a reason to back an Arkansas Republican candidate.

The Major League Baseball star – who previously played for the Detroit Tigers – appeared in a radio ad to back Asa Hutchinson, who is seeking to oust pro-gay Democrat Mike Beebe.

He said in the advert: “I’m asking you to vote for my friend Asa Hutchinson for Governor.

“Dr King said that men should be judged by the content of their character. Today we too often prejudge political candidates by their party label.

“Asa is committed to the principles we hold dear, like a strong faith in God, equal justice for all, and keeping marriage between one man and one woman.”

It is not the first time Hunter has caused controversy over his views, admitting in 2012 he would be “uncomfortable” having a gay teammate.

He said: “For me, as a Christian, I will be uncomfortable because in all my teachings and all my learning, biblically, it’s not right.”

Listen to the clip below:

