A college baseball team is taking heat after it staged a very public same-sex kiss between a pitcher and a hitter. The Portland Pickles, a collegiate summer baseball organization that styles itself after the popular Savannah Bananas organization with wild stunts, hosted a “Heated Rivalry” game night. “Heated Rivalry” is a nod to the HBO Show that focuses on two professional hockey players who hide their gay relationship while also playing against one another professionally. During the Portland Pickles game, a pitcher ends up hitting a batter, who then charges the field. However, rather than attacking the pitcher, the two embrace and share a passionate French kiss for several moments.

Sports media outlet, Outkick, noted that several children were in attendance during the game and that at least one little girl can be seen covering her eyes as the men kiss. The team celebrated the moment on its social media, writing, “Our cottage was packed. Tongues were used. Things got heated. All the Things She Said played approximately 81 times. Oh, and there was baseball.” The team followed up the “Heated Rivalry” game with a mid-July Pride night on July 16. The team framed the game as a “celebration of LGBTQ+ people, joy, and chosen family, because the world is weird enough without anyone feeling unwelcome. Love is love, baseball is baseball, and this park is for everyone.”

Social media reacted to the stunt with many voicing disgust. “COMPLETE DEBAUCHERY,” wrote podcast host Kristin Sokoloff. “‘Family Friendly’ Portland Pickles Baseball Game. Kids Witnessed This Garbage. A ‘skit’ featuring two grown men making out on the field. This is what passes for ‘family entertainment’ in Portland now. Disgusting. Keep your agenda off the field and away from our children.” Another account called the moment “disgusting.” “Only Portland,” the account added. “This is how far evil is willing to go, folks. We are in the final days. Come Jesus, come. Shame on every parent in attendance.” The gay outlet Out celebrated the game, stating audiences were “treated” to the “steamy” scene and lauding the success of the show which inspired the theme. Outkick, however, has disputed the show’s success, stating HBO has refused to release its viewership numbers while season 2 has yet to be released.