The St. Louis Cardinals are firmly denying any political intentions behind the home run celebration performed by several of their players last weekend during a game against the Braves. Alec Burleson’s home run in the third inning was accompanied by him and some teammates in the dugout placing a hand over their ears, then raising a fist. This seemingly paid homage to President Trump’s reaction following his assassination attempt on July 13, which involved a similar defiant fist gesture along with an appeal to “Fight!” However, the Cardinals are insisting that the celebration was not politically motivated in any way.
Designated hitter Matt Carpenter told the St. Louis Post-Dispatch that the event had nothing to do with politics and should not be construed as such. He acknowledged that it might seem like an attempt to make a statement, but he assured everyone that the St. Louis Cardinals are staying far away from any political involvement or expression.
The Cardinals’ spokesperson Brian Bartow reiterated this stance when speaking with CNN. He clarified that the celebrations were references to Burleson’s “DJ/rapper nickname of ‘Biscuits.’” This nickname stems from Burleson’s time as a DJ in college, indicating that the players were simply having fun and expressing camaraderie during a successful moment in their game. Bartow added that it was a celebratory exchange between the players and their teammate who has been performing exceptionally well on the field.
In conclusion, while the similarities between the home run celebration and President Trump’s response to his assassination attempt may be striking, the St. Louis Cardinals are firmly maintaining that there is no political aspect to the event whatsoever. The team asserts that it was a lighthearted moment meant to boost morale and support one of their players who has been excelling in recent games.