Social media erupted after a photograph emerged showing St. Louis Cardinals mascot Fredbird holding a sign that reads "Police Lives Matter."

After the photo was posted to the St. Louis Police Officers Association's Facebook page, the Cardinals asked them to remove it, drawing reaction from both critics and supporters.

Deadspin wrote a story titled "Your Racist Uncle Will Love This Picture Of The Cardinals' Mascot," while other people and media outlets came to the Cardinals and Fredbird's defense.

The team explained that at a recent home game, a couple asked Fredbird for a picture and handed him a sign.

"A man and a woman stopped Fredbird to request a quick photograph," Ron Watermon, vice president of communications for the team, said. "While the man was taking the picture, the woman standing next to Fredbird asked him to hold up the sign. Fredbird was unaware of the content of the sign."

The team has apologized, saying its mascot should not be involved in any political activity or social commentary.

Watch the clip above and weigh in with your thoughts in the comments.

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