In a previous post, we mentioned the intention of the Washington Nationals to pay tribute to fallen SEALs. Unfortunately, the plan was a no-go, after the MLB nipped the plan in the bud.

It seems that the Nationals we’re unable to get permission for wear tribute hats during the actual game, although they did receive permission to do so for batting practice. A spokeswoman for the team sent the following statement:

“As a team that is dedicated to supporting our military service men and women, we requested permission from Major League Baseball to wear hats representing all of the military branches during batting practice and throughout the game. We realize this was an extraordinary request and were pleased when permission was granted to use the hats during batting practice. The players were honored to wear the hats and in doing so were able to demonstrate the team’s solidarity with our military community.”

Pat Courtney, spokesman for the League, “We reserve hats for national tributes, where every club is wearing them on the same day… but we’re happy to work with clubs on alternatives.” Courtney said that the league prefers tributes and commemorations to come in the form of uniform patches or batting practice displays, as opposed to actual game hats.

Such commemorations, Courtney revealed further, are coordinated league-wide. Examples provided were the wearing of white hats and stars and stripes logos on Memorial Day, and on the Fourth of July. Proceeds during these events are donated to the Welcome Back Veterans program.