Subway Series Villains: Mets And Yankees' Most Hated Players

Michael

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Post on May 19, 2025

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Subway Series Villains: Mets and Yankees' Most Hated Players

The Subway Series. A clash of titans, a battle for New York City bragging rights, and a breeding ground for intense rivalries. Beyond the iconic moments and legendary players, however, lies a darker side: the players who became synonymous with hatred from the opposing fanbase. This isn't about players who simply lost crucial games; this is about those who earned the ire of Mets and Yankees fans alike through their on-field actions, personalities, or perceived arrogance. Who are the most hated players in the history of this legendary rivalry? Let's dive in.

The New York Yankees' Most Hated Players (According to Mets Fans)

For Mets fans, certain Yankees have become the embodiment of everything they despise about their crosstown rivals. Years of frustration, heartbreaking defeats, and perceived arrogance have fueled intense dislike for specific players.

• Derek Jeter (Honorable Mention): While Captain Clutch enjoyed almost universal respect across baseball, his success against the Mets and unwavering confidence often rubbed fans the wrong way. It wasn’t hate, exactly, more of an intense begrudging admiration.

• Alex Rodriguez: A-Rod's controversial career, including his PED suspension and perceived arrogance, made him a prime target for Mets fans. His success against the Mets only fueled the flames of their animosity. His bombastic personality and outspoken nature only exacerbated the situation.

• Mariano Rivera: Believe it or not, even the legendary Sandman wasn't immune to intense Mets fan dislike. His almost supernatural ability to close out games against the Mets – often in the most dramatic fashion – solidified his place as a thorn in their side. It's the ultimate testament to his dominance.

• Babe Ruth (Historical Mention): While he played long before many current fans were born, the Sultan of Swat's defection from the Red Sox to the Yankees remains a sore point for many baseball historians and Mets fans alike. This historical context continues to fuel the rivalry's intensity.

The New York Mets' Most Hated Players (According to Yankees Fans)

Similarly, certain Mets players have etched themselves into the annals of Yankees lore – but not in a positive way. Their performances against the Bronx Bombers and their personalities have cemented their status as villains in the eyes of Yankees fans.

• Tom Seaver (Honorable Mention): The Franchise's fierce competitiveness on the mound often resulted in intense battles against the Yankees. While respected for his skill, his victories against the pinstripes were not easily forgotten.

• Darryl Strawberry: Strawberry's explosive talent was often overshadowed by his off-field issues and perceived lack of discipline. His performances against the Yankees, while sometimes stellar, were often accompanied by controversy.

• Mookie Wilson: For Yankees fans, Mookie Wilson will forever be remembered for his role in the 1986 World Series. His ground ball through Buckner's legs remains a painful memory, solidifying his place among the most hated Mets.

• Dwight Gooden: Doc Gooden’s immense talent was undeniable, but his inconsistency and off-field struggles fueled the frustrations of Yankee fans, particularly when his performances against them were less than stellar.

The Ever-Evolving Nature of Subway Series Villainy

The list of hated players is not static. New players emerge each year, cementing their place in the hearts (or rather, the antipathy) of fans through memorable – or infamous – performances. The intensity of the rivalry ensures that new villains will undoubtedly rise to challenge the established figures on this list. Who will be the next player to earn the wrath of the opposing fanbase? Only time will tell.

What are your thoughts? Who do you consider to be the most hated players in Subway Series history? Share your opinions in the comments below!