YORK, Pa. — The York Revolution has forfeited its Atlantic League game against the Southern Maryland team scheduled for Thursday, June 18, at WellSpan Park, citing players’ refusal to wear the team’s scheduled Pride Night jerseys.
The decision allows the 11th Annual Pride Night to proceed as a free-admission community celebration focused on recognition and inclusion. The Atlantic League has confirmed receipt of the forfeit notice and stated it supports member clubs in upholding standards of a safe, respectful and welcoming environment.
According to the York Revolution statement, the club decided that hosting the Pride Night event was more important than requiring players to wear jerseys they were not comfortable with. The team emphasized consistency with long-standing partnerships, including with the Rainbow Rose Center and JLS Automation.
As a gesture of regret for the last-minute change and support for its LGBTQIA+ partners, York is making a $10,000 donation to the Rainbow Rose Center. The Pride Night event will run from 5:30 p.m. to 9 p.m. and will include community activities, music and batting practice on the field. Limited concessions will be available.
The Atlantic League’s statement noted that the league is committed to providing a safe, respectful and welcoming environment for fans, guests and all members of its communities. It expressed support for York and all member clubs in upholding those standards.
Southern Maryland fans who purchased tickets for the June 18 game will have them treated as a rainout, redeemable for any future 2026 regular-season home game of the Southern Maryland team, subject to availability. Exchanges can be made through the team’s ticket office.
The York Revolution stated that the players’ action was inconsistent with the club’s vision as the “Most Welcoming Place in York.” The team will return to the field for its next home game on Friday, June 19.
Pride Night has been a signature community event for the York club for more than a decade. This year’s decision to prioritize the free celebration over the game reflects ongoing discussions in professional sports about balancing player personal views with team-sponsored inclusivity initiatives.
Local Southern Maryland baseball supporters planning to attend or follow the series will need to adjust their schedules. The Atlantic League season continues with remaining games, and both organizations have encouraged fans to participate in the free Pride Night activities where possible or attend future matchups.
The incident highlights the challenges teams face when player participation in themed events becomes a point of contention. Both the York Revolution and the Atlantic League have framed their responses around core values of respect, inclusion and community engagement.
Southern Maryland residents interested in the team’s upcoming schedule or ticket exchanges should contact the team’s ticket office directly for the most current information.
