TALLAHASSEE, Fla. (CBS12) — Florida AG James Uthmeier escalated his criticism of MLB, launching a formal investigation over alleged discrimination against Christian players.
The move comes days after Uthmeier publicly questioned MLB on social media following reports that three San Francisco Giants pitchers were warned for displaying Bible verses on their caps during a recent Pride Night game, according to previous reports.
Uthmeier explained his reasoning in a Friday statement announcing the probe:
Major League Baseball claims it does not tolerate discrimination based on religion, yet its actions tell a different story. If MLB applauds ideological messages it prefers while reprimanding expressions of Christian faith, that is not neutral rule enforcement—it is religious discrimination that cannot stand in Florida.
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The investigation centers on warnings reportedly issued to Giants pitchers, including Landen Roupp, after they etched Bible verses on their caps. The verses referenced God’s covenant with humanity and the rainbow as its sign in Genesis 9:12-16.
According to Uthmeier’s office, MLB said the players were warned because league rules prohibit writing on uniforms or equipment regardless of the message and that the enforcement was consistent with normal practice.
However, the attorney general argues MLB has allowed similar exceptions for other causes and messages.
The subpoena cites examples including Black Lives Matter patches, “United for Change” messaging, social justice statements on cleats, etchings on pitchers’ mounds, and other forms of personal expression that the league allegedly approved or did not discipline.
The subpoena was issued under the Florida Civil Rights Act and the Florida Deceptive and Unfair Trade Practices Act.
PHOENIX, ARIZONA – JUNE 17: Arizona Diamondbacks grounds crew and staff members use colored sand to decorate the team logo in conjunction with Pride Night at Chase Field during a game against the Cleveland Guardians on June 17, 2023 in Phoenix, Arizona. (Photo by Norm Hall/Getty Images)
It requires MLB to produce documents by July 23, including uniform and equipment policies, enforcement records dating back to 2020, internal discussions surrounding the warnings issued to the Giants pitchers and records related to Florida-based teams and Grapefruit League clubs.
Investigators say they are also seeking information about Pride Night policies, themed apparel expectations and whether any players faced consequences for declining to participate in league-sponsored initiatives because of religious beliefs.
The investigation marks Uthmeier’s latest challenge involving a major professional sports league.
Earlier this year, the attorney general subpoenaed the NFL as part of an investigation into diversity-related hiring policies, including the Rooney Rule. Uthmeier argued some of the league’s practices could constitute discrimination based on race or sex, while NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell said the league was cooperating and regularly reviews its policies to ensure compliance with the law.
The MLB probe follows a similar line of scrutiny, this time focusing on religious expression and whether league rules are being enforced equally.
“The Attorney General’s office will not hesitate to take all necessary action to protect the religious liberty of players and employees working in Florida,” the agency said.
MLB has not publicly responded to the subpoena. The San Francisco Giants have also not released a detailed statement regarding the players involved or the reported warnings.