When Chicago Cubs rookie Matt Shaw skipped a September 22 game against the Cincinnati Reds, it wasn’t because he was hurt or tired.
It was because his close friend, conservative activist Charlie Kirk, had been murdered.
Shaw took leave under Major League Baseball’s personal leave rules to attend Kirk’s memorial service.
To most people, that’s a no-brainer. Family and faith come first. But to New York Mets announcer Gary Cohen, Shaw’s absence was “weird” since it wasn’t for a direct family member.
His comments touched off a firestorm that has spilled from the ballpark to social media and now into living rooms across America.
BREAKING – Mets fans are boycotting the team and refunding tickets until announcer Gary Cohen publicly apologizes for criticizing Cubs player Matt Shaw for missing a game to attend Charlie Kirk’s memorial, pointing out Cohen himself skipped a game after the death of a pet. pic.twitter.com/OmXdmtD46k
— Right Angle News Network (@Rightanglenews) September 25, 2025
The Backlash Against Cohen
Mets fans themselves are leading the charge. According to posts on X, some are demanding refunds or even boycotting games until Cohen apologizes.
Why? Because as critics point out, Cohen once missed a game to mourn the death of his pet.
That’s not to say pets aren’t important, but when compared to honoring the life of a murdered friend, the contrast feels glaring.
This is what many conservatives call “media hypocrisy.”
When it’s a broadcaster making a personal choice, it’s excused. But when it’s a young athlete making a faith-based decision tied to a conservative figure, it’s “weird.”
A Poetic Twist
Adding to the story, Shaw didn’t just return quietly. He came back strong, going 3-for-4 with three runs and an RBI against Cohen’s own Mets.
Cubs fans called it poetic justice. His actions spoke louder than words, proving that taking a stand for values doesn’t mean giving up performance on the field.
Why This Hits Home for Conservatives
Charlie Kirk wasn’t just any friend. He was one of the loudest voices for conservative youth in America.
His Turning Point USA movement energized thousands of young people, including here in Nevada where his events often drew packed crowds.
For Shaw, attending Kirk’s memorial wasn’t just personal – it was a stand against the violence that claimed Kirk’s life.
Respect for Personal Choices
Nevadans know the importance of standing by your friends and family. In rural communities from Elko to Pahrump, folks still show up for neighbors in need, whether it’s a funeral, a church gathering, or even just bringing a meal to a struggling family.
That’s the kind of community spirit Shaw showed when he chose to honor Kirk. And it’s the kind of spirit conservatives believe should be protected, not criticized.
“Players Should Always Put the Team First”
To be fair, some sports analysts argue that players should always prioritize the team, especially during playoff races.
They say Cohen was simply holding Shaw to the same standard as anyone else in the league.
But conservatives push back, asking: if baseball can pause for personal grief over a pet, why not for the funeral of a close friend murdered in cold blood?
MLB Controversy Sparks Wider Debate Over Faith and Values
This dust-up is about more than one player or one broadcaster. It’s about whether America still respects faith, loyalty, and personal conviction in the public square.
From Nevada to New York, conservatives are drawing a line: professional success is important, but it should never come at the cost of your values.
Shaw reminded us of that with his choice – and then reminded Cohen and the Mets with his bat.
The opinions expressed by contributors are their own and do not necessarily represent the views of Nevada News & Views. This article was written with the assistance of AI. Please verify information and consult additional sources as needed.
