Twins’ Max Kepler Apologizes For Rocking ‘Blue Lives Matter’ Mask After George Floyd’s Death

Minnesota Twins outfielder Max Kepler received a ton of backlash after he posted himself rocking an apparent “Blue Lives Matter” face mask amid the George Floyd protests. The mask appeared to have a black and white portrayal of an American flag with a blue line going across the middle.

That particular flag popped up years ago and symbolizes the “Blue Lives Matter” group, who support police officers across the U.S. It was made in response to the ‘Black Lives Matter’ movement.

Many thought him wearing this was very distasteful after George Floyd died in a police-involved incident in which an officer was seen kneeling on his neck.

Kepler finally addressed the issue formally in a lengthy statement on his social media page.

“Earlier, I posted a photo of me in a mask that was sent to me by a company, to wear during the pandemic,” Kepler said. “I had no idea that the mask had any underlying inferences — I simply thought it looked good.”

“After I was informed, I immediately took down the post. I take complete responsibility for not knowing what I was wearing. I am truly sorry for the hurt and pain my actions have caused, especially now.”

Kepler continued, “Racism has no place in our world and I do not in any way support the actions that we all witnessed that led to George Floyd’s passing. My sympathies are with the Floyd family.”

The Twins have not addressed Kepler’s picture, but did release a statement.

The team added, “We will continue to working with our community partners to move forward with courage, free of hate and thoughtful in our path, to create the change we want to see in our world – one, all-inclusive Twins Territory, where everyone is protected, safe and welcome.”