San Francisco Giants Pitchers Inscribe Bible Verses on Pride Caps

Three wrote versions of the Bible verse Genesis 9:12-16 on the caps alongside the rainbow logo, while one wore the standard black and orange hat instead. The league office issued a verbal warning to the three players who made alterations, citing Major League Baseball uniform regulations that prohibit writing of any kind.

A league statement said the warning had nothing to do with the message content. Under the collective bargaining agreement, a second violation carries a $1,000 fine.

One pitcher said he had received both negative comments labeling him a bigot and some positive messages. He stated the group expected some reaction but did not anticipate the level of attention that followed. Another pitcher said the players had seen others take similar actions in the past and did not expect significant consequences.

He added that the decision reflected their personal beliefs and that they wanted to welcome all fans to the ballpark.

The team issued a statement apologizing for any pain and anger caused by the players' actions and noted that individuals may make personal choices about team events. The league described the warning as routine and confirmed no written notice or further contact had occurred.

Manager Tony Vitello said he learned of the warning from a public relations official before speaking with reporters. Some fans and members of the LGBTQ community interpreted the inscriptions as a form of mockery, while the players maintained the action was an expression of faith rather than exclusion.