Trigger warning: What you are about to read may reinforce the inferiority complex you have from D.C. not being a state.
The Washington Nationals, one of several “Washington” teams that actually play in Washington, D.C. (aka, the District of of Columbia), are selling some problematic merchandise via the MLB’s online store: a 16-ounce “State of Mind Frosted Pint Glass” that seemingly places D.C. in Maryland. The officially licensed cups are going for $9.99.
“Add some Washington Nationals pride to your kitchen with this State of Mind Frosted pint glass,” the web copy says cooly. “It’s perfect for enjoying a cold drink while watching your favorite Washington Nationals.”
That’s not what state the team is in, @MLBpic.twitter.com/ObSUsU3U46
— Byron Tau (@ByronTau) April 27, 2016
Note the Nationals logo centered over Southern Maryland https://t.co/dcae93U2qk
— Trent Datcher (@TDatcher) April 27, 2016
In addition to hosting the Washington football team, Maryland has also apparently annexed the Nationals. Welcome! https://t.co/x3WmmtHXtk
— Doug Gansler (@DougGansler) April 27, 2016
City Desk has reached out to spokespeople for the team and will update this post if we hear back.
In the meantime, it’s worth noting: Maryland doesn’t even want us, despite what the MLB seems to think.
Update, April 28: The cup’s URL is now redirecting eager customers back to the shop’s main page.
Update, 11:15 a.m.: An MLB spokesperson tells City Desk that the league is looking into how the merch was officially approved, clarifying that MLB Advanced Media—not the team itself—was selling the glass. The problem may not be limited to the cup.
Photo via MLB online shop