Dodgers reliever Blake Treinen wears custom hat honoring Charlie Kirk during game
Treinen, who has spoken publicly about his Christian faith, wore a cap inscribed “Charlie Kirk” with a cross as MLB clubs observed tributes following the activist’s killing.
Los Angeles Dodgers relief pitcher Blake Treinen wore a custom hat bearing the name "Charlie Kirk" and a cross while pitching in the ninth inning of Friday night’s game against the San Francisco Giants, a gesture that drew attention from fans and commentators.
The display came days after conservative activist Charlie Kirk was shot and killed during a campus event at Utah Valley University. Authorities arrested a 22-year-old Utah resident, identified by local officials as a suspect in the killing. Utah Gov. Spencer Cox said a family member of the suspect contacted a family friend who then relayed information that the suspect had confessed or implied involvement to them.
Treinen, who has spoken openly about his Christian faith, told CBN Sports in a recent interview that his relationship with Jesus is central to his life and work. "He’s my everything. I mean, I wouldn’t be here without my relationship with Jesus," Treinen said. "When I’m on the mound, that’s my form of worship. I draw a cross and point up so that people know who I play for."
Major League Baseball confirmed to Fox News Digital that it had asked clubs to follow a White House presidential proclamation directing that flags be flown at half-staff in ballparks. The proclamation ordered flags to remain at half-staff until sunset on Sunday. Clubs across the league have taken a range of actions to honor Kirk and to address concerns about political violence.
The Chicago Cubs held a moment of reflection before their game Friday and played a message over the public-address system describing Kirk as a lifelong Cubs fan and calling for an end to political violence. "May all of us as Americans come together in solidarity to strengthen our nation, end these senseless acts and turn to civil discourse to discuss our differences," the message said.
Treinen’s on-field tribute was one of several individual and team responses that followed the killing. Teams and leagues often navigate complex policies on political or personal expression during games; players and clubs have at times faced scrutiny or discipline depending on the circumstances and league rules. MLB’s request to lower flags followed the White House proclamation rather than imposing a uniform on-field requirement.
The investigation into the shooting remains active. Local law enforcement has not released a motive, and officials have urged the public to await the results of the ongoing inquiry and any formal charges. The suspect is in custody and will face the legal process.
Teams and players across professional sports have in recent years expressed personal beliefs and paid tribute to public figures in varied ways. In this instance, Treinen’s visible salute on the mound added to a broader series of observances and official gestures following a high-profile and deadly attack that has drawn national attention and prompted calls for unity and an end to political violence.