Javy, Mets get even with fans
Former Cubs shortstop Javy Baez says the Mets are giving their fans some of their own medicine.
After hitting a two-run home run to help the Mets defeat the visiting Nationals 9-4 — and win a series for the first time since Aug. 10-12 — on Sunday, Baez said the players have been flashing the thumbs-down gesture after hits as a response to fans who have jeered the team during a rough stretch in August.
‘‘When we don’t get success, we’re going to get booed,’’ Baez said. ‘‘So they’re going to get booed when we have success . . . . I love the fans and I like playing for the fans. But we can’t have our fans against us.’’
After Baez’s comments took off on social media, Mets president Sandy Alderson condemned the remarks and signs.
‘‘These comments, and any gestures by him or other players with a similar intent, are totally unacceptable and will not be tolerated,’’ Alderson said in a statement.
Joey Wendle hit two homers, including a grand slam, and drove in six runs to help the Rays outslug the host Orioles 12-8 and complete a sweep of the three-game series.
The Rays finished 18-1 against the Orioles this season. They have the best record in the American League and have beaten the Orioles, who have the worst record in the AL, 12 consecutive times.
Yoshi Tsutsugo hit a three-run homer off Alex Reyes with one out in the ninth inning to lift the host Pirates past the Cardinals 4-3. Five of Tsutsugo’s nine hits with the Pirates have been homers.
†Mets right-hander Noah Syndergaard, who hasn’t pitched in the majors this season while recovering from Tommy John surgery, was scratched from a rehab start after testing positive for COVID-19.