(KMJ) The mass deportation efforts of illegal immigrants has turned into a major league showdown in Southern California.
ICE agents were denied access to Dodger Stadium on Thursday, according to the Los Angeles Dodgers.
“This morning, ICE agents came to Dodger Stadium and requested permission to access the parking lots. They were denied entry to the grounds by the organization. Tonight’s game will be played as scheduled,” the team said in a statement posted on X.
However, in a response post on X Thursday afternoon Immigration and Customs called the claims fake news.
“False. We were never there,” ICE posted.
MLB has not issued a statement on the situation.
The Dodgers organization had drawn criticism on social media for not commenting on the ongoing federal immigration enforcement actions in the L.A. area. While others maintain sports organizations should steer clear of politics.
Dodgers infielder Kiké Hernandez has been a vocal critic of the deportation efforts, writing on Instagram Saturday: “I am saddened and infuriated by what’s happening in our country and our city. I cannot stand to see our community being violated, profiled, abused and ripped apart. ALL people deserve to be treated with respect, dignity and human rights.”
LA plays host to the San Diego Padres Thursday evening.
