BREAKING: New York Mets Spiritual Leader Juan Soto Announces Boycott of MLB Pride Night: “On the Field, People Should Be Focusing on Baseball, Not WOKE”
In a stunning announcement that has already ignited fierce debate across the sports world and beyond, New York Mets outfielder and team spiritual leader Juan Soto revealed that he will boycott the MLB’s annual Pride Night events, citing his belief that “on the field, people should be focusing on baseball, not woke agendas.”
The 26-year-old superstar made the statement just hours before the Mets’ weekend series opener, standing firm in what he described as a personal and spiritual decision rooted in his values.
> “I have nothing but love and respect for all people,” Soto said during a press conference at Citi Field. “But I also believe there’s a time and place for everything. The baseball field should be a sanctuary for the game, for competition, and for the fans who come to watch us play ball—not for political or ideological statements. I’m not trying to be divisive, but I won’t participate in Pride Night.”
A Statement Reverberating Across the League
Soto’s remarks quickly became national news, sparking a wave of both support and criticism from fans, media figures, and fellow athletes.
Some applauded Soto’s boldness in an era where many players shy away from expressing dissenting opinions on cultural issues. Others, however, accused him of undermining MLB’s efforts to support inclusion and the LGBTQ+ community.
The Mets organization released a brief statement following Soto’s announcement:
> “We respect Juan’s personal beliefs and recognize that players have the right to express themselves freely. At the same time, the New York Mets remain committed to celebrating our diverse fanbase and will continue with our planned Pride Night events in partnership with local LGBTQ+ organizations.”
A Known Voice of Conviction
This isn’t the first time Juan Soto has used his platform to speak out on matters of principle. Since joining the Mets in a blockbuster deal ahead of the 2025 season, Soto has not only delivered All-Star-caliber play on the field but also embraced a role as the team’s unofficial “spiritual leader.”
From organizing prayer circles in the clubhouse to mentoring younger players on maintaining focus amid media noise, Soto’s presence has been both magnetic and polarizing.
While some teammates quietly support his stance, others were reportedly “caught off guard” by the timing of his announcement, which came just two days before the Mets’ scheduled Pride Night at Citi Field.
> “He’s a grown man and he speaks from the heart,” one Mets player said anonymously. “But I do think this could have been handled differently. We’ve got a team to lead, and we all come from different backgrounds. That’s what makes baseball beautiful.”
The Broader Cultural Debate
Major League Baseball, like many major sports leagues, has embraced Pride Nights as part of its broader inclusion efforts over the past decade. Jerseys adorned with rainbow logos, themed giveaways, and community events have become annual traditions for teams across the country.
Supporters of these efforts argue that Pride Night is not about politics but about creating safe, welcoming spaces for all fans—including those in the LGBTQ+ community.
But Soto’s comments have reopened an ongoing national conversation about where to draw the line between sports and social messaging.
> “Woke culture is everywhere these days, and athletes who don’t go along with it are often pressured into silence,” said conservative sports commentator Clay Travis. “Juan Soto is showing courage by standing up for what he believes in.”
On the other side, LGBTQ+ advocacy groups were quick to denounce Soto’s stance.
> “It’s disheartening to see a player of his stature dismiss the importance of representation and inclusion,” said GLAAD spokesperson Monique Hayes. “Pride Night isn’t about politics—it’s about visibility, safety, and respect. Comments like his send a harmful message, especially to LGBTQ+ youth who look up to athletes as role models.”
A Possible Ripple Effect?
Soto’s decision may not be isolated. In recent years, a small but growing number of MLB players have opted out of Pride-themed celebrations, citing religious or personal reasons. In 2022, several Tampa Bay Rays players made headlines when they declined to wear rainbow patches on their uniforms. Now, with a player of Soto’s star power stepping into the spotlight, the league could face deeper divisions.
Insiders say MLB Commissioner Rob Manfred has been briefed on the situation, though no official league-wide response has been issued as of Saturday morning.
Meanwhile, fans have taken to social media in droves to either cheer or condemn Soto’s boycott, with hashtags like #StandWithSoto and #BaseballIsForEveryone trending simultaneously.
Mets Clubhouse Tensions?
While Soto insisted that his stance was personal and “not meant to be a distraction,” some worry the issue could impact team chemistry.
The Mets, currently battling for a playoff spot, have relied heavily on Soto’s offensive production and leadership. He leads the team in home runs, RBIs, and on-base percentage—statistical categories that have made him a frontrunner for the National League MVP race.
> “I hope people can separate my performance from my beliefs,” Soto said. “I’m here to win games. That’s what matters most. I’ll always respect my teammates, no matter who they are or what they believe. That’s what unity is all about.”
Still, others have called on Soto to apologize or reverse course, especially in a city as diverse and progressive as New York.
Former Mets slugger and fan favorite David Wright weighed in on X (formerly Twitter), writing:
> “Everyone’s entitled to their beliefs. But inclusivity isn’t a political statement—it’s a human one. Baseball should be for everyone, period.”
What Comes Next?
With the Mets scheduled to wear rainbow-themed caps and host LGBTQ+ honorees during Sunday’s game, all eyes will be on Soto. While he has not said whether he will sit out the entire game or just the pregame festivities, sources close to the team indicate he’s unlikely to back down.
Whether this becomes a lasting rift or a momentary flashpoint remains to be seen. But what’s certain is that Juan Soto has put MLB in the center of yet another chapter in the ongoing collision between sports, culture, and ideology.
As the weekend unfolds, Mets fans—and baseball as a whole—will be left grappling with one of the sport’s most pressing questions:
Can a player stand for his personal
convictions while also honoring the diversity of the game’s ever-expanding community?
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