Former MLB star Ian Kinsler made a powerful statement last night at the ALCS. Instead of representing his former teams, the Texas Rangers or the Houston Astros, Kinsler chose to wear a Team Israel jersey while throwing out the ceremonial first pitch.
Key Takeaway
Ian Kinsler, a former MLB star and special assistant to the Rangers general manager, showed his support for Israel by wearing a Team Israel jersey while throwing out the first pitch at the ALCS. Kinsler’s display of solidarity is significant given his Jewish heritage and his previous involvement with the Israeli baseball team.
Kinsler, who is Jewish, is currently serving as a special assistant to the Rangers general manager. The organization invited him to kick off Game 3 of the American League Championship Series at Globe Life Field in Arlington, TX.
This unique display of support for Israel is not new to Kinsler. A few years back, he obtained Israeli citizenship alongside his US citizenship, allowing him to play for Israel at the 2020 Summer Olympics in Tokyo. He also served as the manager for the Israeli team at the World Baseball Classic in 2023.
Since the recent attack a few weeks ago, Kinsler has been closely following the situation on the ground. The attack has taken a toll, claiming the lives of 1,400 Israelis.
Kinsler is not alone in using his platform to bring attention to the situation. Boxing legend Floyd Mayweather has also been actively supporting Israel. Mayweather sent a plane full of supplies to Tel Aviv and even FaceTimed with IDF special forces soldiers. He also joined a pro-Israeli march in Los Angeles.
Mayweather is now raising money by selling special Israel-themed TMT hats, with a portion of the proceeds going to Leket, an Israeli-based food bank.
