MLB contacts Giants players about Bible verses on Pride Night caps

Major League Baseball warned three San Francisco Giants players after they wrote Bible verse references on their caps during the team's Pride Night game on June 12. The league said the writing violated its rules. MLB chief communications officer Pat Courtney stated that the players received standard warnings about future violations.

A San Francisco lawmaker who represents District 6 and sits on the San Francisco Board of Supervisors posted on social media that the episode was disappointing in several respects. The lawmaker wrote that professional athletes' uniforms are not a canvas for individual self-expression, especially about politics.

The post also noted disappointment that a symbol of the LGBTQ+ community was still viewed as controversial. The lawmaker added that the players' actions should not be labeled bigoted or hateful and urged those offended to show grace.

Francisco pitcher Landen Roupp wrote "Gen 9:12-16" on his cap. He told reporters the reference concerned God's covenant and promise of faithfulness and mercy. "There's no hate at all. It's just what I stand for, and what I stand in. I believe in God," Roupp said.

Giants manager Tony Vitello said players have the freedom to do what they think is best and noted the organization's efforts to embrace the entire community.

Schneider said he would pay any fines MLB players face for wearing Bible verses on their uniforms. Schneider posted on social media that he would cover fines for any MLB Christian player who wears a Bible verse on their uniform.