New York Yankees play-by-play broadcaster Michael Kay expressed discomfort with displays of patriotism during the 2023 World Baseball Classic, stating on his ESPN New York radio show that he does not like "wrapping sports in the flag" or bringing in Navy SEAL speakers.^[1]

Kay made the remarks on March 22, 2023, alongside columnist Mike Lupica, criticizing the fervor around players representing their country. "The only uniform that counts to me is the one that’s worn by the men and women of our military," Kay said. "You don’t represent me because you have USA on the chest."^[1]

The comments followed Team USA manager Mark DeRosa's decision to invite Robert J. O'Neill, a former Navy SEAL credited with killing al Qaeda leader Osama bin Laden, to address players during the pool stage in Houston.^[1][2] DeRosa clarified that the visit occurred a couple of days into the Houston stay, not immediately before a quarterfinal game.^[2]

Players including Bryce Harper of the Philadelphia Phillies and Aaron Judge of the New York Yankees spoke publicly about the significance of wearing the USA uniform during the tournament, held from March 8 to 21, 2023.^[3] Team USA advanced to the final at loanDepot park in Miami, where they lost 3-2 to Japan on March 21.^[3]

DeRosa explained his choice, saying it was to remind players of the event's purpose and to honor military service members. "There’s a reason why you’re doing it and a reason why people protect our freedom at night," he said in an interview.^[2]

Lupica, appearing with Kay, called bringing in a SEAL Team 6 member "a little dodgy" and noted that mixing politics with sports leads down an unwanted "rabbit hole."^[1]

Kay further argued that international baseball competition does not reflect national greatness, reserving that for military personnel. "The United States winning the gold medal against Canada? Wonderful. Thrilled for them. Not a referendum on my country," he said, though Team USA did not face Canada in the tournament.^[1]

Sources

1. Awful Announcing
   Michael Kay doesn’t like ‘wrapping sports in the flag,’ SEAL Team 6 speaker at WBC
   March 22, 2023
   https://awfulannouncing.com/mlb/michael-kay-wrapping-sports-flag-wbc.html
2. Defector
   Mark DeRosa explains SEAL Team Six talk
   March 22, 2023
   https://defector.com/mark-derosa-explains-seal-team-six-talk
3. MLB.com
   Japan beats Team USA to win 2023 World Baseball Classic
   March 22, 2023
   https://www.mlb.com/news/japan-wins-2023-world-baseball-classic