A Patriotic Snafu: Cubs’ Luke Little Swaps Gloves for American Flag Patch
In an unexpected twist during the Cubs’ 4-3 victory over the Astros on Wednesday, pitcher Luke Little found himself switching gloves not because of a performance issue, but due to a Stars and Stripes patch.
The Flag’s Offence
As Little entered the game in the seventh inning, the umpires inspected his glove as per routine. To their surprise, the American flag patch caught their attention. The issue? White is a no-no on pitchers’ gloves, and the flag’s presence violated that rule.
According to a “distraction” concern for batters, Little was ordered to replace his glove. But the search for a replacement quickly turned into a comedy of errors.
- First Glove: The clubhouse attendant’s first choice also boasted an American flag.
- Second Glove: The next was an unbroken-in option that Little had to “beat up” on the spot.
Speaking with reporters, Little reflected on the comical situation: “Breaking in a glove during a game. Who knew that would be part of the job description?”
Patriotic Pride and X Reactions
Despite the odd circumstances, Little’s social media response hinted at a touch of frustration. He posted “Proud to be an American … Go Cubs Go” along with an American flag emoji and a GIF of Hulk Hogan.
As the news spread, a mix of reactions emerged online. Some commended Little’s patriotism, while others questioned the validity of the “distraction” rule.
A Rule of Laws and Stripes
Little explained that his custom glove had been a staple since his minor league days. However, an email from Major League Baseball ended the tradition.
“It’s not like it blinds the hitters. Just representing my country,” said Little. “Just a whole debacle.”
Despite the disappointment, Little ultimately pitched 0.2 innings, striking out one batter. While the game ended with a Cubs victory, the unexpected glove switch left a lasting imprint on the night.
Reflection and the Future
The incident highlights the balance between personal expression and adherence to rules in sports. While Little’s intent was to display his patriotism, the rule had to be upheld.
As the season progresses, it remains to be seen whether Little will find a more compliant way to honor his country while performing on the mound. One thing is for sure: the “Patriotic Glove Incident” will be etched into the annals of baseball trivia.
Data sourced from: foxnews.com
