CUBA TEAM Limiting protest is no way to show off U.S. values. That's the question raised by the next exhibition game between the Baltimore Orioles and a national team from Cuba. At the first game in Havana last month, Cuban authorities handpicked a crowd that was sure not to protest. Banners, flags, musical instruments or megaphones have been banned from the stadium.
Police plan to triple their regular manpower.
You would think that the expected protesters were marauding Mongolian hordes. You would also expect these tactics in Cuba, whose regime is famous for its repression and abuse of human rights. Not here, in the United States, where constitutionally protected free speech is as sacred as baseball. Yes, public authorities must protect public safety. Setting aside an area for demonstrations outside the park, for example, is wise.