The Los Angeles Dodgers, a storied franchise in Major League Baseball, have found themselves at the center of a heated controversy following their decision to include male cheerleaders in their 2025 season squad. The move, intended to promote gender equality, has sparked a significant backlash among some fans, with many taking to social media to announce they are canceling their season tickets in protest. The Dodgers, who were among the first MLB teams to introduce male cheerleaders, now face a public relations challenge as head coach Dave Roberts attempts to quell the uproar with a succinct five-word message: “We embrace talent, not division.”
The decision to include male cheerleaders began in 2018 when the Dodgers, inspired by the NFL’s Los Angeles Rams, broke from tradition by adding male dancers to their cheer squad. This season, the team doubled down on its commitment to diversity, with several male cheerleaders performing alongside their female counterparts during home games at Dodger Stadium. The Dodgers’ front office has framed the inclusion as a step toward inclusivity, emphasizing that all cheerleaders, regardless of gender, undergo the same rigorous audition process and bring exceptional athleticism and energy to the game-day experience. However, the move has not been universally welcomed.
Social media platforms, particularly X, have been flooded with posts from disgruntled fans who argue that the inclusion of male cheerleaders disrupts the traditional appeal of the Dodgers’ game-day atmosphere. Some have called the decision a “woke” misstep, claiming it alienates the team’s core fanbase. “I’ve been a season ticket holder for 15 years, but I’m done,” one fan posted, echoing a sentiment shared by others who feel the team is prioritizing political correctness over fan expectations. The backlash mirrors similar controversies in the NFL, where teams like the Minnesota Vikings faced criticism for adding male cheerleaders, with some fans using inflammatory language to express their discontent.
The Dodgers’ decision comes at a time when sports organizations are increasingly navigating cultural shifts. Cheerleading, historically a female-dominated activity in professional sports, has roots as a male-led endeavor in the late 19th century. The reintroduction of men into these roles challenges long-held gender norms, prompting both praise and pushback. Supporters of the Dodgers’ move argue that it reflects the evolving nature of sports entertainment, pointing to the athleticism and professionalism of the male cheerleaders. “It’s about talent and passion, not gender,” one fan wrote on X, defending the team’s choice. Others have noted that male cheerleaders have long been a fixture in collegiate and high school settings, making the outrage seem overblown.
Dave Roberts, known for his steady leadership, addressed the controversy directly in a press conference following a recent game against the San Diego Padres. His five-word message was a call for unity, urging fans to focus on the team’s performance on the field rather than off-field decisions. “Our goal is to create an inclusive environment where everyone feels welcome,” Roberts elaborated, emphasizing that the cheer squad’s diversity strengthens the Dodgers’ brand. The team’s management has also stood firm, with a spokesperson stating that the inclusion of male cheerleaders aligns with the organization’s commitment to equality and reflects the diverse community of Los Angeles.
Despite the backlash, the Dodgers have received support from unexpected quarters. Some prominent figures, including former athletes and commentators, have praised the team for challenging stereotypes. The controversy has also sparked broader discussions about gender roles in sports, with parallels drawn to the NFL’s experience, where about one-third of teams now feature male cheerleaders. Data from 2025 indicates that 12 NFL teams, including the Rams, have embraced mixed-gender squads, a trend the Dodgers appear to be following.
As the 2025 MLB season progresses, the Dodgers face a delicate balancing act. The team’s on-field success, including their recent lead in the NL West, has kept them in the spotlight, but the off-field drama threatens to overshadow their achievements. While some fans have vowed to boycott games, others have rallied behind the team, purchasing tickets to show support for the inclusive initiative. The Dodgers’ management remains optimistic that the controversy will subside as fans grow accustomed to the new-look cheer squad. For now, Roberts’ message serves as a reminder that the team’s focus remains on unity and excellence, both on and off the field.
