It’s astonishing to get asked will MLB be political as the NFL
First off the question is a loaded question. Second off a lot of subjectivity comes into play. What is political? Was the NFL political? Will there be a baseball season? Anyway, long story short my answer is no. But there is a medium story…
In the world of professional sports, discussions about politics and social issues have become increasingly prevalent in recent years. While the National Football League (NFL) has been at the forefront of such debates, another major league is now stepping into the spotlight: Major League Baseball (MLB). With its deep-rooted history and iconic status as America’s pastime, MLB has traditionally been seen as separate from political controversies.
However, as societal perspectives shift and athletes use their platforms to speak out against injustice, a question lingers in the air: Will MLB follow suit and become as politically engaged as its gridiron counterpart?
The answer to that question remains uncertain, but there are signs that MLB players and teams are becoming more willing to engage in social and political issues. In recent years, we have seen individual players take a stand on various causes close to their hearts. For example, several players have spoken out about racial inequality and police brutality, showing solidarity with the Black Lives Matter movement.
Moreover, some teams have shown support for LGBTQ+ rights by hosting Pride Nights at their stadiums or wearing rainbow-themed apparel during games.
These actions have sparked both praise and controversy within the baseball community and society at large. Some fans argue that politics should be kept separate from sports, as they view them as a form of entertainment and escape from real-world issues. However, others believe that athletes have a platform and responsibility to use their voices for social change.
Can MLB be political? The league itself has taken steps to address social issues by implementing initiatives such as the Play Ball program, which aims to increase youth participation in underserved communities.
Critics of the MLB’s actions argue that incorporating politics into sports can alienate fans and create division among supporters. They contend that people attend games or watch them on television to enjoy a break from the complexities of daily life, not to be confronted with political ideologies.
On the other hand, many athletes believe it is essential to use their platform for social change. They argue that as influential figures in society, they have a responsibility to address injustices and advocate for those who may not have a voice.
They assert that by highlighting important issues during games or in post-game interviews, they can spark conversations and raise awareness on a national scale. Athletes argue that their visibility and popularity give them the ability to reach a wide audience and make a meaningful impact.
Supporters of athletes using their platform for social change also point out that sports have a long history of activism.
From Muhammad Ali’s opposition to the Vietnam War to Colin Kaepernick kneeling during the national anthem, athletes have consistently used their platform to challenge societal norms and advocate for justice. They argue that sports are not just about entertainment or competition but also serve as a reflection of society.
Furthermore, critics who claim that athletes should stick to sports fail to acknowledge the intersection between athletics and social issues. Sports are deeply intertwined with politics, race, gender, and other aspects of identity.
By speaking out on these issues, athletes are able to highlight the injustices and inequalities that exist within society. They use their platform to bring attention to important causes, sparking conversations and inspiring others to take action. Muhammad Ali’s refusal to be drafted into the Vietnam War not only showcased his personal beliefs but also shed light on the disproportionate burden placed on marginalized communities during times of conflict.
His actions sparked a national debate and forced people to confront the systemic racism that pervaded society. Similarly, Colin Kaepernick’s decision to kneel during the national anthem in protest against police brutality and racial inequality ignited a powerful movement for social justice.
Athletes have shown time and again that they are not just entertainers but also influential voices capable of effecting change. Their willingness to risk their careers and face backlash demonstrates a deep sense of moral responsibility.
These athletes understand that their platform goes beyond the field or court; it extends into the hearts and minds of millions of fans. They recognize the power they hold to raise awareness, challenge preconceived notions, and inspire others to take action.
By speaking out against injustice, these athletes have encouraged conversations that may have otherwise been avoided. They have transformed sports arenas into platforms for social change, creating a space where individuals from all walks of life can come together in solidarity.