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Mar 19, 2026

Yankees broadcaster Michael Kay expresses unease over patriotic displays at World Baseball Classic

New York Yankees play-by-play broadcaster Michael Kay said displays of patriotism during the World Baseball Classic made him uneasy.[1]

On Wednesday's edition of his radio show on the YES Network, Kay criticized "wrapping sports in the flag" and bringing in members of Navy SEAL Team 6 to motivate players. "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][2]

Kay's comments came amid discussions by Team USA players including Pittsburgh Pirates pitcher Paul Skenes, Philadelphia Phillies outfielder Bryce Harper and Yankees outfielder Aaron Judge on the significance of representing their country.[1]

Team USA manager Mark DeRosa arranged for Robert J. O'Neill, a former U.S. Navy SEAL who claims to have killed al Qaeda leader Osama bin Laden during the 2011 raid in Pakistan, to address the team.[2][3] DeRosa said the visit served to remind players of the "why" behind competing internationally, honoring military service members who protect freedom.[2]

Sports columnist Mike Lupica, appearing on the show with Kay, called bringing in a SEAL Team 6 member "a little dodgy" and said mixing politics with sports leads to unwanted complications.[1]

Kay reiterated that military personnel represent the United States, not athletes in international competition. "The United States winning the gold medal against Canada? Wonderful. Thrilled for them. Not a referendum on my country," he said.[2]