Is there a psychiatrist present?
A commissioner of Major League Baseball?
How about Steve Cohen?
The Mets’ general manager?
Perhaps a quality control officer?
What about a traditional teacher or nun with a ruler?
Thursday afternoon was Camp Day at Citi Field, with thousands of children present at the ballpark. Many of them seemed to be permanently desensitized and socially isolated due to the relentless commercial messages bombarding their impressionable minds before they could even differentiate between right and wrong.
So, the Mets took the approach any responsible, cautious babysitter would:
They invited a 22-year-old woman, who gained sudden notoriety through a TikTok video showcasing her preparation for oral sex, dressed her in a Mets jersey, and honored her by having her throw out the ceremonial first pitch.
Hailey Welch throws out a ceremonial first pitch before a baseball game between the New York Mets and the Oakland Athletics on Thursday, Aug. 15, 2024. AP
Camp counselors, explain this to the kids you’ve been tasked to supervise. Whether you were aware of who she is and why she was invited to throw the first pitch at a Major League game or not, give it a go. After all, she’s easily accessible on everyone’s cell phones.
Not that some of the 11-year-olds weren’t already in the know; with social media being what it is—and with Rob Manfred & Co. being the negligent forces ruining the game, despite Manfred’s claims that supporting kids as fans is his utmost priority.
Reflect on where we’ve found ourselves and question how we arrived here.
We recently witnessed the Obese Drag Queen Olympics, hosted by a career miscreant—the bottom-feeding, frequently arrested rapper Snoop Dogg. His connection to the Olympics was as relevant as that young woman’s sexual preferences are to the Mets, aside from Pete Alonso’s dignified “LFGM,” which the Mets should have demanded be discarded long ago.
Just last season, Manfred and the Dodgers honored a group of unshaven, hefty men dressed as nuns, who openly criticized Catholics, during an on-field Pride Night event, presenting them as legitimate representatives of L.A.’s LGBTQ+ community.
The media outrage was virtually absent.
But when Chiefs kicker Harrison Butker expressed his family-first values at a Catholic college graduation ceremony, the NFL joined the media to publicly denounce his statements, treating him as if he were a radical anti-American activist—or worse, implying that family should not hold the highest status.
Viral internet star Hailey Welch reacts after throwing out a ceremonial first pitch before a game between the New York Mets and the Oakland Athletics at Citi Field. Brad Penner-USA TODAY Sports
Serena Williams, hosting the ESPYs, told Butker, seated in the audience, that his mind might require immediate cleansing and alteration. Only a radical extremist of any belief system, including none, would dare to assert that family deserves a top ranking.
The Mets have previously taken similar low road, once inviting face-tattooed rapper 50 Cent to throw the first pitch.
Why 50 Cent? Because he hails from Queens. So, being from Queens seemed a greater achievement than his multiple arrests for drug possession and firearms.
Meanwhile, around the same period, the Mets terminated two long-serving employees, including their well-liked public address announcer, after a newly hired female—an eavesdropper—reported overhearing one of them tell a risqué joke to the other.
Hailey Welch (left) celebrates with a friend after throwing out a ceremonial first pitch at Citi Field.
Brad Penner-USA TODAY Sports
Imagine being the parents of children entrusted to camp counselors and summer camps, hoping they would safely enjoy an afternoon Mets game that opens with a ceremony honoring a woman recognized among the socially marginalized for her explicit acts.
Why does this happen?! What were the Mets thinking? Could they not find someone more deserving of such recognition? Or are they aware that Manfred and his allies tolerate this type of team promotion?
Perhaps they were inspired by Roger Goodell’s so-called “family-first” pornographic Super Bowl halftime shows?
If there’s still a chance to embarrass the unembarrassable, then the Mets, along with Steve Cohen and Rob Manfred, owe tens of thousands of families an apology—or, even worse, a refund.
A single benching won’t end the loafing
Aaron Boone’s management of the team doesn’t simply vanish. Not even after Gleyber Torres was briefly benched for a careless double play.
A significant moment is approaching, as Juan Soto finds himself a base short because he chose to admire his hit instead of running to first base (See: Giancarlo Stanton in Boston during the Yankees’ 2021 season-ending wild-card loss).
In Monday’s loss to the White Sox, Soto was barely thrown out at first base on a close call after he stood still to watch his one-bounce line drive get snagged during a diving attempt.
Hard-to-support WNBA star Angel Reese, far from angelic, has lamented about being a victim of sexism rather than addressing her own misconduct.
In a game against the Texas Rangers, Yankees outfielder Juan Soto launched a solo home run in the third inning at Yankee Stadium in the Bronx, New York. JASON SZENES FOR THE NEW YORK POST
Last week, as usual, she posed for photos in a barely-there tiny pink bikini. Yet the fearful, pandering media have chosen to overlook this obvious reality.
Both YES Network broadcasts for the Yankees and SNY broadcasts for the Mets continue to overlay fake strike zones during live play, then use them to argue whether the home plate umpire made a mistake.
Let’s clarify this once more: The official strike zone extends from the letters to the knees, not beginning at the belt line as depicted on television.
The only time height considerations are made is when Aaron Judge bats, as YES Network stretches the box to accommodate his towering 6-foot-7-inch frame.
Plenty of Amazin’ celebrations, not enough victories
The Mets have their celebrations down to a science, from “OMG” signs waved in the dugout to home run antics and signaling for dugout applause after—OMG—a single.
Does it matter that they are painfully mediocre, having just been swept in Seattle and then losing two out of three at home to a Triple-A team like the A’s? Not at all.
Where are the empowered female activists who should vocally protest the participation of biological males competing against and often injuring smaller, naturally weaker opponents in women’s sports? Why are they silent?
Or do they view the call for fairness in sports as a political stance?
With ESPN Radio
-With NY shifting to 880, reader Jeff Cohen mentions that it will be intriguing when “The Michael Kay Show” serves as the lead-in for Mets games.
As we reflect on the unfortunate conclusion of WCBS News Radio 880 this month, we remember a memorable remark made on the station.
This noteworthy line originated in 2014 from sports anchor Gordon Damer.
Following the announcement that the Phillies had traded pitcher Roberto Hernandez to the Dodgers, Damer noted that Hernandez was formerly known as Fausto Carmona.
He concluded by sharing the update that the Phillies would receive “two players to be named later.”
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Social Media At Bat: The Mets’ Controversial Choice for Camp Day Pitching Honor
Understanding the Context
The New York Mets have made headlines once again, but this time, it’s not just about their on-field performance. The recent decision to select a celebrity for the Camp Day pitching honor has sparked discussions across social media platforms. Fans and critics alike are questioning the motives behind this choice, and the implications it has for the team’s branding and community engagement.
The Choice of Pitching Honor
For their annual Camp Day, the Mets decided to honor a social media influencer instead of a traditional choice such as a former player or a local figure. This decision has raised eyebrows and divided opinions. Here are some details surrounding the selection:
- Celebrity Background: The selected influencer has a significant following, particularly among younger audiences.
- Social Media Engagement: The Mets aim to leverage the influencer’s social media reach to boost engagement and attendance.
- Community Connection: The decision sparked debate about whether social media influence aligns with community values.
Why Social Media Influence Matters
In the digital age, social media plays a crucial role in sports marketing and fan engagement. Here are several reasons why the Mets might have opted for this controversial choice:
1. Engaging Younger Audiences
Social media influencers possess the unique ability to connect with younger demographics. By choosing a popular figure from platforms such as Instagram or TikTok, the Mets hope to attract a new generation of fans.
2. Leveraging Reach
The influencer’s established follower base means that any promotion related to Camp Day can potentially reach millions more than traditional marketing efforts.
3. Increasing Game Attendance
By drawing attention to Camp Day through a social media campaign, the Mets aim to increase ticket sales and overall attendance, making the event a success.
Benefits of Social Media Marketing in Sports
Incorporating social media marketing into sports strategies offers numerous benefits:
- Enhanced Fan Engagement: Social media allows for real-time interaction with fans, fostering a sense of community.
- Broader Reach: Content shared by influencers can quickly go viral, reaching potential fans that traditional advertising may miss.
- Brand Loyalty: Engaging with fans through social media helps build a loyal following, essential for long-term success.
Case Studies: Other Teams’ Social Media Strategies
Other sports teams have successfully leveraged social media strategies to enhance fan engagement and community involvement. Here are a few notable examples:
| Team | Strategy | Outcome |
|---|---|---|
| Los Angeles Lakers | Utilized celebrity influencers for game promotions | Increased ticket sales and social media engagement |
| Chicago Cubs | Launched hashtag campaigns with fan participation | Boosted online interaction and brand visibility |
| New England Patriots | Engaged fans with behind-the-scenes content | Enhanced fan loyalty and community connection |
First-Hand Experience: Fans React
Reactions from fans regarding the Mets’ choice have been mixed. Many have taken to social media to express their views:
Positive Reactions
- Excitement: Some fans are thrilled about the innovative approach, believing it could bring fresh energy to the event.
- Curiosity: Others are eager to see how the influencer will engage with fans during Camp Day.
Negative Reactions
- Tradition vs. Modernity: Traditionalists argue that the honor should go to a former player or local hero.
- Authenticity Concerns: Some fans feel that using a social media influencer may come off as inauthentic.
Practical Tips for Fans
As Camp Day approaches, here are some practical tips for fans to make the most of the event:
- Engage on Social Media: Use designated hashtags to join the conversation and share your experience.
- Arrive Early: Get to the park ahead of time to participate in pre-game festivities and meet fellow fans.
- Stay Informed: Follow the Mets and the chosen influencer for updates about the event and potential giveaways.
Conclusion: The Future of Sports and Social Media
The Mets’ decision to honor a social media influencer for Camp Day reflects the evolving landscape of sports marketing. As teams increasingly turn to digital engagement strategies, the role of celebrities and influencers will likely continue to grow. The debate surrounding this choice highlights the delicate balance between tradition and modernity, and how teams navigate these waters will shape their relationship with fans for years to come.
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