The Most Hated Players: Ranking The Mets And Yankees' Subway Series Villains

Michael

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Post on May 18, 2025

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The Most Hated Players: Ranking the Mets and Yankees' Subway Series Villains

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 ignite the passions – and the ire – of fans. This year's Subway Series might be over, but the memories (and the grudges) linger. So, let's dive into the controversial world of baseball and rank the most hated players from both the New York Mets and the New York Yankees in the history of this iconic rivalry.

Methodology: This ranking considers a combination of on-field performance against the opposing team, controversial moments, perceived arrogance, and overall fan reaction throughout the years. It’s subjective, naturally, reflecting the collective memory and opinions of generations of fans.

The New York Yankees' Public Enemies #1

1. A-Rod (Alex Rodriguez): No list of hated Yankees is complete without mentioning Alex Rodriguez. His steroid scandal, coupled with his perceived arrogance and extravagant lifestyle, made him a prime target for both Mets fans and, to a lesser extent, even some Yankees fans. His performance against the Mets, while generally good, only fueled the fire. His struggles in high-pressure situations only solidified his place as a villain.

2. Derek Jeter (Captain Clutch): While beloved by Yankees fans, Jeter's unwavering competitiveness and perceived slighting of the Mets earned him a spot on this list. His clutch hitting and almost effortless demeanor against the Mets rubbed some fans the wrong way. The rivalry was real, even for the Captain.

3. Babe Ruth: Although he played decades ago, the Sultan of Swat's legacy includes a controversial move from the Boston Red Sox to the New York Yankees. This remains a sore point for Red Sox fans, and his dominance against the (then) weaker New York teams only adds to his villainous status in the eyes of many Mets fans.

The New York Mets' Most Detested

1. Carlos Beltrán: Beltrán's pivotal role in the infamous 2004 ALCS, where he struck out three times against the Boston Red Sox, will forever haunt Mets fans. His subsequent move to the Yankees only amplified the animosity. While not directly related to the Subway Series, this moment significantly shaped the perception of Beltrán in the eyes of Mets fans.

2. Jose Reyes: While a fan favorite at times during his Mets tenure, his departure and subsequent success with other teams, including brief stints with the Yankees' rivals, fueled some resentment among some of the fanbase.

3. Lenny Dykstra: Known for his aggressive playing style and outspoken personality, "Nails" Dykstra was a fierce competitor. His brash attitude and sometimes questionable on-field antics made him a memorable – and often disliked – figure during his Mets career.

Beyond the Players: The Intangible Factors

The intensity of the Subway Series goes beyond individual players. Factors like historic wins and losses, significant trades, and managerial decisions all contribute to the ongoing feud. The sheer volume of games played between these two teams since their inception only intensifies the animosity.

Conclusion:

Ranking the most hated players is inherently subjective, reflecting the passionate and often conflicting views of the fans. This list represents a snapshot of a complex and enduring rivalry. Ultimately, the Subway Series’ enduring appeal lies in this very intensity, fueled by legendary performances, controversial moments, and the unwavering loyalty—and sometimes animosity—of the fans. What are your thoughts? Who would you include on this list? Let us know in the comments below!