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Keep politics out of sports until ICE shows up at Dodger Stadium

The article titled "Keep Politics Out of Sports Until Ice Shows Up at Dodger Stadium" from MSN, written by Bill Plaschke of the Los Angeles Times, delves into the contentious issue of mixing politics with sports, using the backdrop of a Major League Baseball (MLB) game at Dodger Stadium. The piece is a reflection on the recent political statements made by athletes and how these intersect with the traditional sanctity of sports as a non-political space. Plaschke uses the unique setting of a baseball game played on ice at Dodger Stadium to draw a humorous yet poignant parallel to the unexpected and often unwelcome intrusion of politics into sports.

The article begins by setting the scene at Dodger Stadium, where an MLB game is being played under unusual circumstances - on an ice-covered field. This bizarre scenario serves as a metaphor for the intrusion of politics into sports, which Plaschke argues is equally jarring and out of place. He humorously suggests that fans should be allowed to enjoy the purity of sports without the added layer of political discourse, likening the presence of politics to the ice on the field - both are unexpected and disrupt the normal flow of the game.

Plaschke then shifts to discuss specific instances where politics have entered the sports arena. He references the kneeling protests during the National Anthem by NFL players, the outspoken political views of NBA players like LeBron James, and the political statements made by MLB players. These examples illustrate the growing trend of athletes using their platforms to voice political opinions, a trend that Plaschke views with skepticism.

The author argues that while athletes have the right to free speech, the sports arena is not the appropriate venue for political activism. He believes that fans attend games to escape the daily grind and political debates, not to be confronted with them. Plaschke acknowledges the importance of social issues but maintains that sports should remain a sanctuary from the political fray.

To further his point, Plaschke draws on historical examples where sports and politics have collided, such as the 1968 Olympic Games in Mexico City, where athletes Tommie Smith and John Carlos raised their fists in a Black Power salute during the medal ceremony. While recognizing the significance of these moments, Plaschke argues that they often overshadow the athletic achievements and detract from the spirit of competition.

The article also touches on the reactions of fans and the public to the politicization of sports. Plaschke notes that many fans feel alienated by the political statements made by athletes, leading to a divide between players and their supporters. He suggests that this divide could have long-term negative effects on the popularity and financial health of sports leagues.

In a lighter vein, Plaschke returns to the ice-covered Dodger Stadium, using it as a humorous reminder of how out of place politics can feel in the sports world. He imagines a scenario where fans are more concerned about the ice melting than the political views of the players, emphasizing the absurdity of mixing the two.

The author also addresses the counterarguments, acknowledging that some believe sports and politics are inherently linked and that athletes have a responsibility to use their influence for social change. He respects these views but maintains his stance that the sports field should be a place of unity and escape, not division and debate.

Plaschke concludes by reiterating his main point: keep politics out of sports until ice shows up at Dodger Stadium. This humorous closing line encapsulates his argument that the intrusion of politics into sports is as jarring and unwelcome as ice on a baseball field. He hopes for a return to a time when sports could be enjoyed without the added layer of political discourse, allowing fans to focus on the athletic prowess and competitive spirit of the games.

Overall, the article is a thought-provoking piece that uses humor and a unique setting to explore the complex relationship between sports and politics. Plaschke's arguments are presented with a mix of seriousness and levity, making the piece engaging and relatable to sports fans who may feel similarly about the politicization of their favorite pastimes. While acknowledging the importance of free speech and social activism, the author advocates for the preservation of sports as a non-political space, a sanctuary where fans can come together to celebrate athletic achievement and enjoy a break from the political debates that dominate other aspects of life.

Read the Full FanSided Article at:
[ https://www.msn.com/en-us/sports/mlb/keep-politics-out-of-sports-until-ice-shows-up-at-dodger-stadium/ar-AA1H3ewp ]