MLB pitcher reveals 'life lesson' for his young son after critics hate on him for photo of successful hunting trip

Toronto Blue Jays pitcher Erik Swanson is defending his decision to take his son on a hunting trip.

Over the weekend, Swanson posted a photo to Instagram showing him and his son posing in front of a successful hunt of more than a dozen geese they had killed in Minnesota.

For Swanson, the picture depicted a moment of jubilation and father-son bonding. But others were not so happy about Swanson's hunting.

Critics called the picture "disturbing and disgusting," saying that hunting is "so cruel." At least one person warned the picture would sink his MLB career because he plays for a Canadian team and hunted geese. One critic even said Swanson's hunting disqualifies him from being a parent, claiming he is teaching his son to kill innocent animals.

On Tuesday, Swanson posted a statement to X defending the hunting trip.

According to the Blue Jays relief pitcher, the hunting trip was not just about spending quality time with his son. Rather, he hoped the trip would teach his son a valuable life lesson.

"I am an avid hunter/fisherman and I will always be," Swanson said.

"For the people who are asking me why I have my son with me, I am teaching him a very important life lesson," he explained, "the beef, venison, poultry, fish, fruits and vegetables all come from somewhere, not just the grocery store. Now when he hunts and he harvests his own food, he knows exactly where his food is coming from and what is in it."

"Next time you go to the grocery store or restaurant and order something, remember that it had to come from somewhere. Know what you are eating! Safe hunting to all!" he added.

Fortunately, the negative attention attracted supporters who celebrated Swanson and drowned out his haters.

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