The Enrique Hernández cap controversy is one of those classic moments where humor, personal expression, and public image collide — and not everyone sees it the same way.
What’s the Big Deal?
At first glance, it’s just a cap. But when the cap says “b***** whisperer”* and features a skeleton graphic, and it’s worn by a high-profile MLB player like Hernández, the conversation shifts. Especially when the team edits it out of official photos, and Hernández calls them out publicly for doing so.
Here’s What Makes It Tricky:
1. It’s About Image Management
An anonymous Dodgers player reportedly filed a complaint with manager Dave Roberts over Kiké Hernández’s ‘Butthole Whisperer’ hat that recently went viral, per @FabianArdaya
“My kid saw it and asked me what a butthole whisperer was. I wasn’t ready for that conversation.” pic.twitter.com/9GkUklpOQZ
— Talkin’ Basabell (@TalkinBasabell_) April 15, 2025
The Dodgers are a billion-dollar brand with a diverse fanbase that includes a lot of kids. So it’s not shocking they wanted to censor a phrase that could be interpreted as inappropriate or controversial.
2. Hernández’s Reaction
He felt “disrespected” that the team edited his cap — and said so publicly. That didn’t sit well with a lot of fans, who thought he should’ve handled it behind closed doors. While he has a right to feel slighted, once you’re in the spotlight, what you wear (and say) matters.
3. The Fake Rumor
The viral post from a parody account claiming a teammate complained added a layer of chaos — and unfortunately, some fans believed it was real. Even Freddie Freeman got dragged into speculation, showing how fast misinformation spreads.
Was the Dodgers’ Edit Justified?
Honestly? From a PR standpoint, yes. Teams carefully curate what they post to maintain a certain image. It’s standard practice.
Was Hernández Wrong to React Publicly?
It depends on how you view athlete expression. Some say he was standing his ground. Others believe it made a mountain out of a molehill.
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So What’s Your Take?
Should players have total freedom in what they wear, even if the message is edgy?
Or should teams have the right to moderate how their players are portrayed on official platforms?