The last few days were characterized by heavy smog over the city of Pittsburgh, but the Pirates still had to play their games. Some players think Major League Baseball’s priorities are wrong.
“It’s obvious. They have to make money and their intentions are clear. “It seems that money takes precedence over the players’ health,” outraged receiver Austin Hedges on Radio 93.7 The Fan on Thursday.
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Smoke from wildfires in Quebec and Ontario continues to affect the northern US. The kickoff for the series finale between the Pirates and the San Diego Padres had to be delayed by 45 minutes due to poor air quality, but the major league players decided to continue the game anyway.
Hedges and other stakeholders in the organization are not happy with this lack of executive response, as they feel they are risking their lives. Veteran Andrew McCutchen also wore a mask as he circled the bases after scoring.
“Of course I’m worried,” he told the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette ahead of Thursday’s game. You see the warnings. They read everything they say and try to stay safe on the outside. One of the top recommendations is to avoid strenuous activity, and that’s what we’re doing here for more than three hours.”
“It’s crystal clear when you look on your phone and look at the numbers,” Hedges added. It tells us not to go outside. They don’t say that without reason. We are no different from other people.”
They therefore believe that Major League Baseball should consult with its experts to better protect players. The league has veto power when it comes to canceling a game because of air quality.
Much to the desperation of many, the Pirates begin a three-game series against the Milwaukee Brewers Friday night at PNC Park in Pittsburgh.