New York Mets fan sparks outrage by throwing back home-run ball at Wrigley Field: ‘Grow a spine’

A New York Mets fan behind enemy lines in Chicago has been criticized for giving in to “peer pressure” after returning a home run ball at Wrigley Field.

The unidentified supporter, who wore a Mets hat and jersey in the outfield stands, initially celebrated after catching Francisco Alvarez’s home run in the fifth inning of Saturday’s game.

But to the dismay of New York commentators Steve Gelp and Ron Darling, he quickly gave up his souvenir after being urged by Cubs fans around him to throw the ball back on the field.

“That’s too much peer pressure,” Gelbs said. “Grow a backbone, man.”

Darling then added: “It’s clearly not a leader.”

At many ballparks, it is tradition for home fans to throw balls hit into the crowd by the visiting team back onto the field as a way to protest the points they have just been awarded.

However, it is virtually unheard of for a fan to give up the chance to keep their own team’s home run ball, even if it is on rival territory.

Several users addressed the Mets fan on social media, with one saying, “Ban him from Citi Field.”

Another commented: “Retract his fandom.”

While a third said: ‘Shame on him – he is NOT a real Mets fan.’

Fans were outraged online, with some even wondering if he was a true Mets fan

Others even wondered if the spectator was actually posing as a Mets fan with his hat and jersey on the day.

“He must be a Cubs fan who lost a bet… There’s no other way,” one person wrote.

Another wrote, “That’s not a Mets fan.”

While a third said, “He must be an imposter in Mets gear.”