The Washington Nationals have identified at least one individual who will be banned from the ballpark following an incident during Sunday's game where a banner promoting a white nationalist website was displayed in the stands. A team spokesperson confirmed that the Nationals are working with District of Columbia police on an ongoing investigation.
The banner, which included the phrases "SAVE AMERICA" and "DEPORT 100+ MILLION," was quickly taken down after being unfurled in the upper deck of Nationals Park. The incident occurred during the team's "Salute to Service" segment, which honors veterans and military personnel before the fourth inning.
According to a team spokesperson, an usher attempted to confiscate the banner, but the three individuals holding it pulled it back and fled the scene. The individuals resisted the usher's efforts before escaping. The Nationals lost the game 7-3 to the Baltimore Orioles.
In a statement, the team said: "The Washington Nationals vehemently condemn discriminatory and hateful rhetoric, and we strive to make our home field a safe space for our fans." The team's policy on banners and signs generally requires that they be related to baseball, with exceptions for messages about broadcasters or family-friendly greetings like birthdays and anniversaries.
Jake Lang, a participant in the January 6 Capitol riot and conservative influencer, claimed responsibility for the banner on social media. According to The Athletic, it remains unclear how the banner bypassed security, as stadium magnetometers can detect weapons but would not flag a nylon sign.
