The Most Hated Players: A Look At Mets And Yankees Villains In Subway Series History (NY 4-7)

Michael

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Post on May 18, 2025

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The Most Hated Players: A Look at Mets and Yankees Villains in Subway Series History (NY 4-7)

The Subway Series. A clash of titans, a battle for New York City bragging rights, and a breeding ground for intense rivalries. While the games themselves are legendary, it's often the players who etch themselves into the city's sporting lore – sometimes for all the wrong reasons. From 1999 to 2000, and beyond, certain players became synonymous with animosity, fueling the already fiery competition between the New York Mets and the New York Yankees. This article delves into the most hated players in Subway Series history, exploring the moments that solidified their villain status among opposing fans.

The Yankees' Unpopular Crew:

The Yankees, with their storied history and often-lofty payrolls, have always been a lightning rod for criticism. But certain players amplified that negativity during Subway Series clashes.

• Roger Clemens (1999-2007): The Rocket's intensity on the mound, coupled with his sometimes controversial pitching style, made him a prime target for Mets fans. His clashes with Mets batters, including legendary moments like his near-hit on Mike Piazza, cemented his place among the most despised Yankees in Subway Series history. The image of Clemens staring down Piazza is iconic, almost symbolic of the animosity between the two teams.

• Derek Jeter (1996-2014): While Captain Clutch was beloved by Yankee fans, his unwavering success and perceived arrogance rubbed many Mets fans the wrong way. His clutch hits and seemingly effortless grace only added fuel to the fire, making him a frequent target of booing and criticism during Subway Series games. His dominance, while admirable, often felt infuriating to the opposing team's fans.

• Mariano Rivera (1995-2013): Even the seemingly unassailable Sandman wasn't immune to the wrath of Mets fans. Rivera's devastating cutter and nearly impenetrable closer role made him the ultimate nightmare in the late innings. His icy demeanor and unflappable presence only intensified the frustration of Mets hitters and their supporters. Facing Mo was a dreaded prospect for the Mets, and it made him an easy target for fans' ire.

The Mets' Contenders for "Most Hated":

The Mets, while often the underdog in this rivalry, have also had players who irked Yankee fans.

• Carlos Beltrán (2005-2006, 2011-2012): Though beloved by Mets fans for his electrifying play, Beltrán's postseason struggles, including a crucial strikeout in Game 7 of the 2006 NLCS, left a sour taste for some neutral fans and amplified the disdain of Yankees supporters. His talent was undeniable, but his inability to deliver in crucial moments fueled much of the negativity.

• Jose Reyes (2003-2011): Reyes' aggressive, sometimes reckless, style of play often led to confrontations and hard slides, solidifying his place as a player Yankee fans loved to hate. His speed and talent were impressive, yet his intensity on the field didn't always win him fans in pinstripes.

The Legacy of Hate:

The Subway Series is more than just baseball; it's a cultural phenomenon fueled by intense rivalries and memorable moments. While the players listed above represent some of the most hated figures in the series' history, it's important to remember that animosity is often part of the spectacle. These players, for better or worse, played crucial roles in shaping the narrative and legacy of this iconic New York rivalry. Their presence on the field created some of the most memorable and intensely watched games in baseball history.

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