A handful of San Francisco Giants players caused a stir on the internet over the weekend when they quietly protested the franchise’s celebration of Gay Pride. The Giants wore caps sporting a rainbow edition of the Giants’ iconic “SF,” and several players had strong responses.
Some players wrote scripture verses from the bible on the hats, while pitcher Sam Hentges took an even harder stance, refusing to wear the cap at all. The Athletic’s Grant Brisbee took exception to the players’ antics and made that clear in a piece he published for the outlet.
“… This was another tone-deaf response to what should have been a moment for community unity,” he wrote. “They made the night about ‘us versus them.’ That’s the only thing they could see.”
“Some of that progress was made when events like Pride Night became commonplace, reminding the world of a community’s existence, strength and humanity,” he added. “Events like Pride Night reduce suffering in a very real way. To suggest they don’t is to ignore the humanity of the individuals involved.”
Brisbee implored the players to do better for the vulnerable members of their community.
“It is a choice to ignore that on a night dedicated to people who need others on their side. Do better. That’s the only thing we’re all supposed to do around here, anyway. Do better.”
The Giants entered Monday night 29-43 on the season, so players may want to focus more on improving things on the field rather than taking exception with a night meant to unite the community.
About Qwame Skinner
Qwame Skinner has loved both writing and sports his entire life. In addition to his sports coverage at Comeback Media, Qwame writes novels, and his debut; The First Casualty, an adult fantasy, is out now.