Adams Makes Waves in Oakland, Frustrates Former Team
On February 6, the New York Mets made a significant roster decision, designating right-handed reliever Austin Adams for assignment, effectively removing him from their 40-man roster. While this move might have seemed like a step back for Adams, it turned out to be an opportunity in disguise. Soon after, as spring training was underway, Adams found a new home with the Oakland Athletics through a cash deal.
A New Start for Adams
Since joining the Athletics, Adams, now 33, has more than proven his worth. Solidifying his place in Oakland's bullpen, he has maintained a commendable 3.92 ERA and recorded 53 strikeouts over 41 1/3 innings. His consistent performances have provided a much-needed boost for the Athletics.
This past Tuesday night held added significance for Adams as he took the mound at Citi Field, facing his former team. In a high-pressure situation with runners on first and second and no outs in the fifth inning, Adams managed to escape unscathed, striking out Francisco Alvarez to end the inning. His elation and sense of relief were palpable.
A Controversial Celebration
Following the strikeout, Adams celebrated by imitating the Mets' "OMG" celebration, a move inspired by Mets infielder Jose Iglesias' song "OMG." Iglesias had performed the song at Citi Field after a win on June 28, and the celebration has since become a hallmark for the Mets after hitting home runs. Adams's gesture aimed to mirror this celebration, but it did not sit well with his former team.
Reflecting on his emotional reaction, Adams shared with the New York Post, "Honestly, I looked up and was so surprised I got out of it. I was like, 'Oh my gosh.' And then it dawned on me, I was like, 'Oh my gosh.' So then I did it. I mean, that song is sick. Iglesias is a good dude. So hopefully no one is offended. Just having fun." He added, "I pitch on emotion. I maybe need to do a better job of not doing that. But at the end of the day, big-time situation in a game. Got some big outs, got the team a win. You know, when you get DFAed you're told you're not good enough to play for a team anymore. You know it sucks, so yeah had a little extra juice today."
Mixed Reactions from the Mets
The Mets did not take kindly to Adams's celebration, perceiving it as a breach of unspoken etiquette on the field. Mets closer Edwin Díaz voiced the team's displeasure, saying, "He crossed a line because that's something we do when we hit a homer or something. He (can) do it always, that's fine. But he can't get mad if we do something to him the next couple of days."
Impact on Both Teams
Tuesday's victory was significant for the Athletics, as they extended their winning streak to three games. Conversely, the loss deepened the Mets' struggles, marking their fourth consecutive defeat and placing them two games behind the third wild-card spot.
Adams's performance and subsequent celebration highlight the intense emotions and underlying tensions that can permeate professional sports. For Adams, it was a moment of personal triumph and redemption, a statement that he still belongs in the major leagues despite being let go by the Mets. For the Mets, it served as a bitter reminder of a player they once had and a motivation to respond in the coming days.
As the season progresses, both teams will undoubtedly look back on this game as a significant chapter in their 2023 campaigns, one that saw an unlikely hero make his mark and spark a heated rivalry.