Shocking News: Detroit Tigers Manager A.J. Hinch Announces Boycott of MLB Pride Night, Says “The Focus Should Be on Baseball, Not Sobriety”

Detroit, MI — April 10, 2025 — In a move that has sparked a fiery storm of debate across the baseball world and beyond, Detroit Tigers manager A.J. Hinch has publicly declared his decision to boycott MLB’s upcoming Pride Night celebrations. His reason? A controversial statement that has raised eyebrows and divided fans:

“On the field, the focus should be on baseball, not sobriety.”

The shocking remark, made during a post-practice media session, quickly went viral—setting social media ablaze and reigniting long-standing conversations about politics, inclusion, and personal beliefs in professional sports.

Boycott Announcement Sends Shockwaves Across MLB

Hinch’s boycott of Pride Night immediately triggered intense reactions from fans, players, and civil rights organizations. While some hailed the coach for “putting baseball first,” others accused him of being out of touch with the inclusive values modern sports strive to uphold.

The confusion deepened due to Hinch’s apparent use of the word “sobriety” in a context meant to refer to Pride celebrations. Many speculated whether it was a misstatement, a veiled jab, or an intentional attempt to shift the conversation—either way, it’s been branded “tone-deaf” by critics.

Fans and Advocacy Groups Demand Clarification

The Detroit Tigers organization has yet to release an official statement, but LGBTQ+ advocacy groups have called for an immediate apology and clarification from Hinch.

“This isn’t just about a night at the ballpark,” said one spokesperson for Pride in Sports. “It’s about visibility, respect, and the fundamental belief that everyone deserves a place in the game.”

Fans have been equally vocal. Hashtags like #FireHinch, #BaseballForAll, and #KeepPrideInMLB are trending across platforms, while others, using #LetThemPlay and #HinchWasRight, defend his stance as a call to keep politics and social movements out of professional sports.

A Divided Fanbase and Locker Room Tension?

Sources inside the Tigers clubhouse suggest that Hinch’s comments have also caused friction among players. While no one has spoken on the record, insiders describe a “tense atmosphere” and uncertainty over whether some team members will still participate in Pride Night despite their manager’s absence.

This controversy comes at a time when MLB has made visible strides toward diversity and inclusion, encouraging clubs to celebrate Pride Night as a show of support for LGBTQ+ fans and players.

What’s Next for the Detroit Tigers and MLB?

As pressure mounts on the Tigers to respond, many are watching to see whether A.J. Hinch will walk back his comments or double down. Will MLB step in? Will players speak out? Could this controversy impact Hinch’s position as manager?

For now, what was meant to be a night of celebration has turned into one of the most heated debates of the season.