Instead, the longtime fan said he was “escorted out of the stadium by two big security guards” just moments after the game began due to his choice of headwear.
For today’s game, Begley, who is 70, wore a Blue Jays hoodie and a red ballcap with the slogan, “Canada is not for sale.”
“We have spoken with the fan to apologize,” (Blue Jays) spokesperson Andrea Goldstein wrote in an email.
“Our staff made a mistake, and we have addressed the issue to ensure it does not happen again.”
I don’t necessarily think it’s a bad rule in general – it would avoid raising divisive issues and triggering conflicts during what is supposed to be a family-friendly and enjoyable event for all. But enforcing it in this case was hella stupid and contrary to the spirit of the rule’s own (presumed) intent.
I viscerally despise this kind of meek sterile attitude. But then again, I come from Europe where sports arenas are still public spaces, in the millenia old Roman tradition of the Hippodrome.