Shocking: Cubs’ Dansby Swanson Boycotts MLB Pride Night, Says “The Field Is for Baseball, Not Woke Politics”
In a move that has sent shockwaves through Major League Baseball and beyond, Chicago Cubs shortstop and team leader Dansby Swanson announced on Monday that he will boycott MLB’s upcoming Pride Night event, citing concerns over what he calls the politicization of professional sports.
Swanson, known for his leadership, faith, and quiet professionalism, made the announcement during a pregame press conference at Wrigley Field. Flanked by teammates who declined to comment, Swanson was calm but firm in his words.
“I respect all people,” Swanson began. “But I believe the baseball field should be a place where the focus is baseball — not political or social agendas. I’m choosing not to participate in Pride Night because I don’t want to compromise my faith or what I believe the game should be about.”
The 30-year-old infielder, who has been praised for his consistent play and character since joining the Cubs in 2023, emphasized that his decision was personal, not a call to action or judgment on others.
“Everyone has a right to live and believe as they choose,” he said. “And I’m exercising that same right now. This isn’t about hate. It’s about conviction.”
MLB’s Pride Night and Ongoing Debate
MLB’s annual Pride Night events — designed to promote inclusion and support for the LGBTQ+ community — have been celebrated by many players and fans. However, in recent years, they’ve also drawn criticism from those who feel the league has strayed too far into political messaging.
Swanson is not the first athlete to opt out of participating in themed nights. In 2023, several players across the league chose not to wear Pride-themed warmups, citing religious beliefs. But Swanson’s high profile and respected status within the Cubs clubhouse have given his boycott a bigger spotlight.
Social media exploded within minutes of his announcement. Supporters praised him for standing by his values, while critics accused him of intolerance and exclusion.
One Twitter user wrote:
“Dansby Swanson is showing true leadership — not because of what he believes, but because he has the courage to say it in today’s climate.”
Meanwhile, others responded with disappointment:
“This hurts. Pride Night isn’t about politics — it’s about visibility and safety for LGBTQ+ fans. Baseball is for everyone.”
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The Cubs Respond
The Cubs organization released a brief statement shortly after Swanson’s comments, attempting to strike a balance:
“We support Pride Night as part of our ongoing efforts to welcome and celebrate all fans. At the same time, we respect the individual beliefs of our players and their right to express or abstain from participation.”
Clubhouse insiders said the team was aware of Swanson’s decision ahead of time and there had been no reported tension among players.
A veteran Cubs coach, speaking anonymously, said:
“Dansby is a professional. Whether you agree or not, he handled it respectfully. That’s the kind of leader he is.”
A Broader Cultural Moment
Swanson’s statement reignites a broader national conversation around the intersection of sports, personal beliefs, and social movements.
Experts in sports culture say this reflects a growing divide over what fans and players expect from professional leagues.
“Some fans see Pride Night as celebration and progress. Others see it as political,” said Dr. Karen Ellis, a professor of sports ethics. “What’s changing now is that more players — especially high-profile ones — are willing to speak out, even at the risk of backlash.”
Swanson, a devout Christian and vocal supporter of faith-based charities, ended his remarks by reiterating his hope that fans won’t see his choice as divisive.
“This isn’t about hate. It’s about keeping the game what it’s supposed to be: a unifier, not a battleground.”
As Pride Night approaches, all eyes will remain on Chicago. Whether Swanson’s stance inspires support or sparks controversy, it’s clear that the conversation about values, expression, and inclusivity in sports is far from over.