Sure, by providing access to these Linux-germinated open-source technologies through Azure, Microsoft is endorsing them at the enterprise level where most of their mind share is (viz .NET). Enterprise projects allow Microsoft developers on-the-job training in alternative technologies without committing scarce "after hours / at home" time.

These technologies are cheaper to implement elsewhere (Linux, other cheaper cloud providers, etc.). So, it seems like Microsoft is simply providing a way for .NET enterprise developers to migrate off their platform while being paid for it.

Why is Microsoft increasing the supply of developers who can write code for non-Windows platforms?