Why does Aroldis Chapman have SOS Cuba on his hat?
By Amy Kaplan
Aroldis Chapman wore a hat with a handwritten message to Cuba. But why?
During the 2021 MLB All-Star game, Yankees’ Aroldis Chapman was seen sporting a hat with a hand-written message on it. The message read, “SOS Cuba” which made quite a few fans wonder what he meant by that.
Unfortunately, the country which Chapman is from is suffering right now due to the COVID-19 pandemic. There have been protests in the streets by the citizens of the tiny island who are without food, basic supplies and most importantly – a vaccine.
Aroldis Chapman puts SOS Cuba on cap pic.twitter.com/uKDWtuBkbV
— Bob Nightengale (@BNightengale) July 13, 2021
Aroldis Chapman taking the field today in support of his native Cuba, which has spent these last few days protesting in the streets in frustration of lacking food and vaccines. He told me he’s hopeful this might finally lead to change. pic.twitter.com/QBhXUyGvyJ
— Alden González (@Alden_Gonzalez) July 13, 2021
Hundreds have been arrest or are missing. The Movimiento San Isidro, which is spearheading the protests published a list of people who are said to be detained, according to CNN. Among them is Spanish journalist Camila Acosta.
What is written on Aroldis Chapman’s hat?
Champman worked as an informant before defecting to the United States. He’s now appearing in the MLB All-Star Game representing the New York Yankees.
“It’s one of those opportunities that I think every player wants a chance to be part of,” Chapman said through a translator (h/t NYPost) “To be selected means a lot.”
He’s using his time in the extended spotlight to shine a light on the issues Cuba is facing and to perhaps send a little hope back home.
Next. MLB All-Star Game start time, how to watch and starting pitchers. dark
The All-star Game airs on Tuesday night on FOX.