Former Giants Prospect Solomon Bates on Coming Out as Gay

Episode 51 of The Mental Game features Solomon Bates, a fifth-year professional pitcher and former San Francisco Giants prospect. In August, Bates publicly came out, becoming just the second Minor League Baseball player to come out publicly as gay. In an Instagram post on August 9, Bates wrote, “Being gay in this sport you don't know what comes at you! … I’m still going to open up doors for gay athletes like me. Still will strive to be one of the greatest to do it. … Gay men can play a manly sport if you give us a chance to.” After being released by the Giants, Bates finished the 2022 season with the Sioux City Explorers of the American Association and now has his sights set on getting picked up by another MLB organization. Bates, a graduate of USC, has embraced his role as a spokesperson. He plans to play an active role in securing rights, normalcy and respect for all LGBTQIA+ athletes. On The Mental Game, Bates dives into: Why he chose to come out when he did, and what reception has been like Why he finally feels free His experiences with coming out to teammates Much more, including how he plans to break in at the MLB level Enjoy and remember to be kind to yourself. The Mental Game is also a proud partner of Laaser's Ladybug Society, which is a designated 501c3 organization combatting the stigmas that surround mental health by actively fundraising to support mental health initiatives and innovations in our school system. The mental health challenges faced by our youth are unprecedented and it is time to get off the bench and get in the game as we fight for the mental wellbeing of the next generation. Learn more and join the fight at LaasersLadybugs.org! The Mental Game podcast is produced by Sam Brief and music is courtesy of David Brief and Channel J. You can subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, TuneIn and Stitcher.