All-Time Subway Series Scoundrels: Ranking The Most Hated Mets And Yankees Players

Michael

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Post on May 18, 2025

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All-Time Subway Series Scoundrels: Ranking the Most Hated Mets and Yankees Players

The Subway Series. A clash of titans, a battle for New York City supremacy, a crucible forging bitter rivalries that burn hotter than a summer day in the Bronx. But beyond the electrifying plays and legendary moments, the history of this epic showdown is peppered with players who stoked the flames of hatred, becoming unforgettable – and undeniably unlikeable – figures in the annals of New York baseball. Who are the most hated Mets and Yankees players of all time? Let's delve into the dubious honor roll.

This ranking isn't about on-field skill alone. While talent is a factor, the players featured here earned their place through a combination of exceptional (often frustrating) performance against their cross-town rivals, controversial actions, and a general aura of… let's call it unsportsmanlike conduct.

The Yankees' Rogues Gallery:

1. A-Rod (Alex Rodriguez): Love him or hate him, the steroid era shadow looms large over A-Rod's legacy, and his contentious relationship with the city only fueled the fire. His performance against the Mets, while sometimes impressive, was often overshadowed by his perceived arrogance and off-field controversies. His departure from the Yankees, after a long and turbulent tenure, only cemented his place as a villain in the eyes of many.

2. Derek Jeter (Captain Clutch, but sometimes a pest): While a beloved Yankee captain, Jeter's intense competitiveness sometimes bordered on the chippy. His battles with Mets players, often resulting in heated exchanges and memorable moments, solidified his spot on this list, though for many, this is more “intense dislike” than outright hatred.

3. Johnny Damon: Known for his flamboyant personality and sometimes questionable decisions, Damon's time with the Yankees was marked by a memorable, if sometimes frustrating, rivalry with the Mets. His performances against the Mets, especially during the postseason, remain a point of contention for many fans.

The Mets' Villains:

1. Mookie Wilson (The man who almost broke hearts): His infamous ground ball through Bill Buckner's legs in Game 6 of the 1986 World Series etched him into baseball history. For Yankee fans, however, he's the embodiment of the Mets' frustrating ability to snatch victory from the jaws of defeat.

2. Carlos Beltrán: While a respected player in general, Beltrán's controversial role in the 2017 Houston Astros sign-stealing scandal casts a long shadow. Though not directly related to the Subway Series, it tainted his image amongst many fans, including those who remember his playing days with the Mets.

3. Tom Seaver (The Franchise, but sometimes a thorn): A Mets legend, Seaver's fierce competitiveness meant he wasn't always the most loved figure, even amongst Mets fans. His battles against the Yankees were legendary, and his unwavering determination to win, however achieved, earned him a spot here – proving that even legends can inspire strong reactions.

Honorable Mentions: Numerous other players deserve recognition for contributing to the bitter rivalry. Players like Gary Carter (Mets), Reggie Jackson (Yankees), and even newer players like Jacob deGrom (Mets) have added their own chapters to this ongoing saga.

Conclusion:

The Subway Series is more than just a baseball game; it's a cultural phenomenon, a clash of identities, and a fertile ground for unforgettable rivalries. The players listed here represent some of the most memorable—and most hated—figures in the history of this epic contest. Who would you add to this list? Let us know in the comments below!