The Major League Baseball Players Association, Houston Astros manager Dusty Baker, and the Los Angeles Dodgers organization were among those in the baseball community to join with the broader sports world in issuing their reaction to the “guilty” verdict rendered in the murder trial of George Floyd.
While Major League Baseball and its players have not been as active as their NBA counterparts in campaigning for social justice causes over recent years, baseball has begun to grabble with its responsibility to advocate for racial equality. Particularly in the light of conversations around the lack of African-American representation in the sport.
The MLB's late response on the George Floyd death was noticed by players and fans alike.
Dusty Baker on today’s verdict: https://t.co/OPOP7BueVr
— Bob Nightengale (@BNightengale) April 20, 2021
In particular, Tony Clark, the Players Association executive director, issued a statement that promised to continue efforts toward racial equality and support those players who choose to speak out on such issues. In the past, major league players that have opted to utilize their platform for advocacy have faced criticism that such stances were inappropriate or potentially even “hurting the game.” Critiques that were often met with silence by the league office.
Reading Clark's statement shows that the Players Association will be more aggressive in countering such narratives.
MLBPA executive director Tony Clark statement pic.twitter.com/id3GcKL8kf
— Bob Nightengale (@BNightengale) April 20, 2021
That the Dodgers would be among the first clubs to issue a reaction to the George Floyd verdict also comes as little surprise. Not only does the franchise have a history of supporting racial equality–helping Jackie Robinson break the color barrier in 1947, and more recently beginning an initiative to combat racism–but they are also lead by former MVP Mookie Betts, who has been vocal around social justice issues and has been critical of the league's silence in the wake of George Floyd's murder.
Today our thoughts, prayers, & condolences remain with George Floyd’s family, & others that have recently been devastated by violence. The Dodgers will continue to support and encourage awareness and commit resources in the effort to address systemic inequity & social injustice.
— Los Angeles Dodgers (@Dodgers) April 20, 2021
If Major League Baseball is serious about its quest for racial diversity in the support, silence will no longer be sufficient.
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