Yankees' Michael Kay Criticizes Mets Fans Following 2025 Collapse

Michael Kay, the longtime Yankees broadcaster and ESPN radio host, took a pointed jab at a "vicious, angry subset" of New York Mets fans following the team's unexpected failure to make the 2025 playoffs despite a $340 million payroll and the addition of superstar Juan Soto. Kay expressed sympathy for genuine Mets fans but reserved his criticism for those who harassed him throughout the season, particularly after Soto chose the Mets over the Yankees in free agency, fueling a bitter fan rivalry. The Mets' collapse was especially shocking given their previous year's deep playoff run, and Kay highlighted the irony of their downfall after acquiring a top player like Soto, who was reportedly unhappy at times in the Mets clubhouse. Kay's remarks underscored the intense animosity and back-and-forth trolling between the Mets and Yankees fanbases during the season. The Mets’ disappointment was compounded by slugger Pete Alonso's announcement to opt out of his contract, signaling further instability. Overall, Kay’s commentary illuminated the emotional toll of the Mets' collapse on fans and the divisive nature of sports rivalries in New York.