Rusty Weiss
The Washington Nationals have parted ways with Sean Hudson, their director of community relations, days after a hidden-camera video published by the O’Keefe Media Group appeared to show him discussing the team’s internal handling of pitcher Trevor Williams.
Hudson’s Undercover Comments Spark Discrimination Allegations
In the recording, Hudson claimed the organization avoided featuring Williams in certain social media promotions because of the pitcher’s public criticism of the Los Angeles Dodgers’ 2023 decision to honor the Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence, a group that mocks Catholic imagery and traditions.
Williams, a devout Catholic and outspoken defender of his faith, had condemned the group on social media at the time.
“The Dodgers had a group… who were drag queens who sometimes dressed up as nuns. [Williams] went on social media like… ‘This is my religion. You all are mocking it…'” Hudson is heard saying on the undercover recording. “Because of that, we don’t use him on social [media].”
“Like, when they’re like, ‘Is a hot dog a sandwich?’ and the players come up, you know what I mean? We don’t ask him,” he added as an example.
BREAKING NEWS: Washington @Nationals Director of Community Relations Admits on Hidden Camera to Active Religious Discrimination Against Starting Pitcher Trevor Williams, Surveillance of Nationals Fans’ Google History, and Segregated LGBTQ+ Corporate Meetings to an O’Keefe… pic.twitter.com/AWqlq6wXV9
— James O'Keefe (@JamesOKeefeIII) May 26, 2026
Williams humorously posted an image on Instagram of a ball cap that reads, “Bad day to be a hot dog,” with the word “sandwich” covering the dog.
Nationals Apologize to Trevor Williams and Deny Blacklisting
The Nationals quickly distanced themselves from Hudson’s remarks. Team officials described the comments as not reflective of the organization’s values and denied there was any directive to sideline Williams. Perhaps it was a quiet unwritten rule?
“The statements are not only factually incorrect, but do not reflect the views, opinions or actions of the Washington Nationals,” a spokesperson told Fox News Digital. “The Nationals are dedicated to creating a welcoming and inclusive environment for our players, fans and staff, and we vehemently deny any allegations to the contrary.”
Business president Jason Sinnarajah issued an apology directly to the pitcher, who has been recognized for his community work, including earning a nomination for the 2025 Roberto Clemente Award.
“We feel awful that he’s been dragged into this situation,” Sinnarajah said.
The controversy has drawn attention from conservative groups and Catholic organizations. Some lawmakers are even calling for investigations into potential religious discrimination by the Nationals. Williams has not publicly commented on the matter.
