Yankees broadcaster Michael Kay criticizes mixing patriotism with World Baseball Classic

New York Yankees broadcaster Michael Kay expressed discomfort with patriotic displays during the 2026 World Baseball Classic, saying they made him "a little uneasy."[1][2]

On his ESPN New York radio show on Wednesday, Kay criticized "wrapping sports in the flag and preaching patriotism and bringing in SEAL Team 6 people," adding that "the only uniform that counts" belongs to military personnel.[1] He stated that athletes wearing "USA" do not represent him and that international wins are not a referendum on the country.[2]

Kay's remarks referenced Team USA manager Mark DeRosa inviting Robert J. O'Neill, a former U.S. Navy SEAL credited with killing Osama bin Laden, to speak to players.[1][3] O'Neill addressed the team during the tournament, which DeRosa organized to emphasize honoring military service members.[3]

Players including Pittsburgh Pirates pitcher Paul Skenes, Philadelphia Phillies first baseman Bryce Harper and New York Yankees outfielder Aaron Judge discussed the meaning of representing the United States.[1][4] DeRosa clarified the talk occurred in Houston prior to the quarterfinal against Canada, not immediately before it.[3]

Co-host Mike Lupica described the SEAL visit as "a little dodgy" and said introducing politics into sports creates unwanted complications.[1]

The 2026 World Baseball Classic, held March 5-17, concluded with Venezuela beating the United States 3-2 in the final at loanDepot park in Miami, Florida, on March 17.[5][6] The United States had defeated Canada in the quarterfinals and the Dominican Republic in the semifinals on March 15 at the same venue.[5]