Sunday saw some intriguing moments in baseball as certain MLB players’ celebrations sparked speculation of political undertones.
Shortly after Joe Biden’s exit from the 2024 presidential race [1] and the recent attempt on Donald Trump’s life, gestures made during games raised eyebrows.
NEW: MLB players are doing Trump-inspired celebrations after Trump was nearly assas*inated at his Pennsylvania rally last week.
Tampa Bay Rays player Taylor Walls was seen going “Fight, Fight” with his fist in the air.
The St. Louis Cardinals’ dugout was seen holding their ears… pic.twitter.com/ZKfjjZALpf [2]
— Collin Rugg (@CollinRugg) July 21, 2024 [3]
In the game between the St. Louis Cardinals and the Atlanta Braves, designated hitter Alec Burleson’s home run celebration included hand gestures that resembled Trump’s pose and ear injury. The Cardinals, however, dismissed any political symbolism, attributing it to mimicry of a DJ.
@CitizenFreePres [4] pic.twitter.com/cF0wSkF0Ir [5]
— Karli Bonne’ 🇺🇸 (@KarluskaP) July 22, 2024 [6]
In another game between the Tampa Bay Rays and the New York Yankees, Rays’ shortstop Taylor Walls made gestures and words that echoed Trump’s remarks post-assassination attempt. The timing of this action made it unclear if it was connected to Trump.
Taylor Walls did the Trump “Fight! Fight!” after this double pic.twitter.com/8K5ovTEIQh [7]
— Talkin’ Baseball (@TalkinBaseball_) July 21, 2024 [8]
These incidents followed the recent Republican National Convention where Trump supporters wore ear bandages as a sign of solidarity.
It is notable that Trump enjoys support within baseball circles, as seen with Washington Nationals pitcher Patrick Corbin’s vocal endorsement of the former president.
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