Buster Posey said Tuesday that the San Francisco Giants must learn from their handling of the club's annual Pride Night in June, when several players added Bible verses to their rainbow-themed caps. The display drew criticism from progressive fans, while the team's handling was also condemned by Republican politicians in Washington. It added to the embarrassment of another season without a playoff berth.

"Any time you have a situation like that, it's always an opportunity to learn," Posey, the Giants' president of baseball operations, said in a news conference. "I think that's the steps we take is, as you look back on that, is you reflect and you say, 'What could have been done differently?' and you try to learn from that and move on."

MLB commissioner Rob Manfred issued a warning to players that writing on caps is a violation of league policy. Players were supposed to be told that wearing the rainbow-themed hats was optional, but Manfred said the "Giants' communication with players was inadequate and not clear." Starting pitcher Landen Roupp and relievers JT Brubaker and Ryan Walker added Bible verses, while Sam Hentges wore the regular black version.

Manager Tony Vitello, whose team had a 65-97 record, said communication needs to be at the highest level. Posey also addressed the aftermath of outfielder Harrison Bader's scooter accident, which led to his pay suspension. Posey expressed confidence in Vitello, saying "I still believe in his ability to lead." The Giants haven't reached the postseason in five straight years.