Major League Baseball (MLB) has advised players against writing on their uniforms after San Francisco starter Landen Roupp and two other pitchers added Bible verses to their caps during Pride Night. Roupp commenced the game against the Chicago Cubs with ‘Gen 9:12-16’ inscribed on his cap, overlapping the rainbow SF logo worn for the event. Pitchers JT Brubaker and Ryan Walker also displayed Bible verses on their caps.
Another pitcher from the Giants, Sam Hentges, opted for the team’s standard black cap with an orange logo instead of the Pride Night version.
MLB highlighted a violation of the uniform policy, noting that writing on the cap breaches league rules. A warning was issued to players about potential future breaches of uniform rules. MLB clarified in its statement, “The writing on the cap violates our rules and consistent with normal practice we have warned the players about future violations,” adding that this was a general warning, unrelated to the message’s content.
The league reiterated its stance on uniform regulations, noting, “We respect players’ right to free expression. However, writing of any kind, with any message, is prohibited per Major League Baseball’s Uniform Regulations.” The warning emphasized that writing messages on apparel or equipment, regardless of content, is not allowed. This policy has been applied to messages such as ‘Dad,’ ‘Happy Mother’s Day,’ and family member names.
MLB teams host Pride Nights during the season to support LGBTQ+ fans. The league is notable among major U.S. sports for organizing such events, as the regular season coincides with Pride Month. Teams often display rainbow-themed uniforms, host special signage at ballparks, and involve community figures and performers.
The verse cited by Roupp involves a biblical promise linked to the rainbow as a symbol of covenant. “That’s just kind of something I believe in,” said Roupp, expressing appreciation for the freedom of belief and expression. Giants manager Tony Vitello mentioned the players’ understanding of freedom in their actions without specific discussions before the game.