Breaking News: Tom Ricketts’ Alleged Pride Month Ticket Ban Shocks MLB

Chicago, IL – June 5, 2025 – Thomas Stuart “Tom” Ricketts, chairman of the Chicago Cubs, has reportedly sent Major League Baseball (MLB) into a tailspin after allegedly stating that he “won’t sell tickets to Pride Month worshippers” at Wrigley Field, the Cubs’ historic stadium. The controversial remark, which emerged at 04:29 PM HKT (02:29 AM CST) today, has sparked intense backlash from fans, advocacy groups, and MLB officials, threatening to damage the Cubs’ reputation as a progressive franchise. The full context of Ricketts’ statement remains incomplete, as the quote was reportedly cut off, fueling speculation and outrage.

Ricketts, 60, has served as chairman of the Chicago Cubs since 2009, when his family acquired the team for $845 million. A Chicago native and lifelong Cubs fan, Ricketts played a pivotal role in ending the team’s 108-year championship drought with a World Series victory in 2016. His tenure has also seen significant renovations to Wrigley Field, preserving its historic charm while adding modern amenities, and the expansion of Cubs Charities, which supports youth sports and education in the Chicago area. Despite these successes, Ricketts’ alleged statement has drawn sharp criticism, casting doubt on his commitment to inclusivity.

Sources claim Ricketts made the comment during a private event in Chicago, where he was addressing the team’s strategy for the 2025 season. The term “Pride Month worshippers” has been widely interpreted as a derogatory reference to the LGBTQ+ community, a group MLB has actively supported through Pride Nights and partnerships with organizations like GLAAD. The league, which has worked to position itself as a champion of diversity, now faces a significant challenge as it grapples with the fallout from Ricketts’ alleged remarks.

The Ricketts family has faced scrutiny over social issues in the past. In 2019, emails from Joe Ricketts, Tom’s father, revealed racist and Islamophobic sentiments, leading Tom and his siblings to publicly denounce their father’s views and reaffirm the Cubs’ commitment to inclusivity. Tom Ricketts has since prioritized initiatives to make Wrigley Field a welcoming space, including hosting annual Pride events. However, his alleged Pride Month comment has led many to question whether these efforts were genuine, with some fans accusing him of hypocrisy.

LGBTQ+ advocacy groups have been vocal in their condemnation. “This statement, if accurate, is a direct affront to the LGBTQ+ community and contradicts MLB’s values,” said a representative from the Human Rights Campaign. “The Cubs must take immediate action to address this and ensure Wrigley Field remains a safe space for all.” On social media, fans have rallied under hashtags like #CubsPride and #MLBForAll, with many calling for a boycott of Cubs games until Ricketts addresses the issue.

The controversy comes at a critical time for the Cubs, who are in the midst of a promising 2025 season, vying for a spot in the National League playoffs. Wrigley Field, a cultural landmark since 1914, has long been a symbol of Chicago’s spirit, hosting not only baseball games but also community events and concerts. Ricketts has often described Wrigley as a “place for everyone,” a vision that now appears at odds with his alleged statement.

MLB Commissioner Rob Manfred has yet to comment publicly, but league sources indicate that he is under pressure to respond decisively. MLB has a history of addressing owner misconduct, as seen in the case of Los Angeles Clippers owner Donald Sterling, who was banned from the NBA in 2014 for racist remarks. Whether Ricketts will face similar consequences remains unclear, but his leadership is now under intense scrutiny.

As the situation unfolds, the Chicago Cubs and MLB face a pivotal moment. Will Ricketts clarify or retract his alleged statement, or will this controversy redefine his legacy with the Cubs? For now, the team, which has worked tirelessly to connect with fans and uphold its storied tradition, finds itself at the heart of a debate that could reshape its future in the league and beyond.