In recent years, Major League Baseball (MLB) has embraced Pride Month with its teams hosting Pride Nights, displaying progress in LGBTQ+ inclusivity. However, the search for the first openly gay active player in MLB continues. Billy Bean, MLB’s senior vice president for diversity, equity, and inclusion, shares his personal journey as a closeted gay player and highlights the importance of players being their authentic selves.
While some progress has been made, opposition to LGBTQ+ support within baseball persists. The tension between LGBTQ+ advocacy and conflicting views on homosexuality, especially in regions where it is deemed a sin, showcases the ongoing challenges within the sport. Despite the NBA and NFL already breaking the barrier, MLB is yet to welcome its first openly gay active player.
Players like Seattle’s Julio Rodríguez, Chicago’s Marcus Stroman, and Toronto’s Kevin Gausman have publicly celebrated Pride Month. However, the inclusion of the Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence in the Los Angeles Dodgers’ Pride Night sparked controversy. Dodgers pitcher Clayton Kershaw disagreed with the decision due to the group’s satirical portrayal of religious figures, while Washington pitcher Trevor Williams expressed his concerns about the group’s mockery of his Catholic faith.
MLB’s efforts toward inclusivity have faced occasional opposition from individuals with differing beliefs, emphasizing the diverse perspectives within the sport. Players like Anthony Bass, who initially expressed support for anti-LGBTQ+ boycotts, have shown the need for continued education and dialogue on LGBTQ+ issues.
While progress is evident, there are fans who question how far their favorite teams are willing to go in supporting the LGBTQ+ community. Notably, the Texas Rangers are the only team in MLB not hosting a Pride Night this month. In contrast, Pittsburgh Pirates general manager Ben Cherington emphasizes that inclusivity is crucial for building successful teams at all levels of the organization.
The journey towards inclusivity in MLB encompasses both personal and cultural aspects. Dale Scott became the first openly gay major league umpire in 2014, and a few minor league players have also come out. However, the absence of an openly gay active player should not solely be used to evaluate the progress of inclusivity. Bean understands the challenges players face in the highly competitive world of professional baseball and acknowledges the personal choices players make regarding their public identity.
As MLB continues to celebrate Pride Month with its annual Pride Nights, the quest for the first openly gay active player in baseball remains a topic of discussion. The sport’s strides towards inclusivity, alongside the diverse range of perspectives within the baseball community, highlight the ongoing journey towards a more accepting and inclusive future.