MILWAUKEE (AP) — Cuban José Iglesias transformed the Mets’ season after spending a year and a half in the minor leagues.
His vibrant personality and Latin music helped the Mets break free from their early struggles. He then emerged as a key player for New York, which is now back in the postseason.
Iglesias made his way to first base after slapping his left hand down, narrowly avoiding Dominican pitcher Joel Payamps’ foot, and reached base on an infield single, just as the tying run crossed home plate. This ignited a five-run rally in the fifth inning, leading the Mets to an 8-4 victory over the Milwaukee Brewers in their first game of the National League wild-card series.
“What can I say? I feel like the game hasn’t treated me fairly,” Iglesias stated. “But I was given this chance. Everything else is behind me. I am here today to assist this amazing organization, and I am truly grateful for it. I’m embracing this opportunity wholeheartedly and I’m not letting go.”
Iglesias, 34, previously played for Boston (2011-13) and Detroit (2013-18). He missed the 2014 season due to a stress fracture in both shins but was selected for the All-Star Game in 2015.
After stints with Cincinnati (2019), Baltimore (2020), the Angels (2021), the Red Sox (2021), and Colorado (2022), he signed a minor league contract with the Marlins in 2023, only to be released in April. He played 28 games with San Diego’s Triple-A team in El Paso and started the year with Triple-A Syracuse.
The Mets called him up on May 31 when they stood at 23-33. Iglesias capitalized on his playing time at second base, hitting .337 with four home runs and 26 RBIs. His song “OMG,” which he performs under the nickname “Candelita,” became the emblem of the Mets’ season, inspiring the players to put up a sign next to the dugout that each hitter poses with after hitting a home run.
He even performed the song live at Citi Field after the victory against Houston on June 28.
With two outs and two men on base in the fifth inning against the Brewers, Iglesias hit a ground ball to first baseman Rhys Hopkins, who fumbled the ball but managed to keep it from rolling into the outfield. Underhand, Hopkin threw the ball to Payamps, who was running toward the base.
“I thought the ball was probably a little closer to the bag,” Payamps admitted. “I reacted very late.”
As Iglesias reached base ahead of Payamps, he got up and pounded his chest four times, while Tyrone Taylor scored from second base to tie the game at 4-4.
“When I heard everyone cheering, I thought, ‘Oh, he made it!’ And then I just found a way to reach safely.”
José Iglesias: The Mets’ Season-Changing Protagonist
Introduction to José Iglesias
José Iglesias, a Cuban professional baseball player, has taken the Major League Baseball (MLB) world by storm with his recent performance for the New York Mets. After a challenging year-and-a-half spent in the minors, Iglesias’s arrival marked a pivotal turning point for the team, transforming the Mets’ fortunes and leading them back into postseason contention.
From the Minors to Major Moments
Initially signed by the Miami Marlins in 2023, Iglesias found himself navigating the complexities of the minor league system. However, an opportunity presented itself when the Mets called him up on May 31 after a dismal 23-33 start to the season. Since his promotion, his impact has been nothing short of phenomenal.
The Rebirth of a Player
Upon joining the Mets, Iglesias quickly became a key contributor. His standout performance included:
- A .337 batting average
- Four home runs
- 26 RBIs in limited playing time
This resurgence not only showcased his talent but also his determination to make a significant impact in the Majors.
The Song that Became a Rallying Cry
In addition to his athletic prowess, Iglesias’s vibrant personality shone through with the song “OMG,” which he performs under the nickname “Candelita.” The catchy tune became a symbol of unity and motivation for the Mets:
- Players celebrated homers with a designated sign next to the dugout.
- Iglesias performed the song live at Citi Field after a victory over Houston.
A Key Play in a Crucial Game
In a high-stakes game against the Milwaukee Brewers during the National League wild-card series, Iglesias reached base on an infield single, igniting a critical five-run rally in the fifth inning. This moment encapsulated the essence of his contribution to the team:
- With the tying run on base, his hustle paid off as he reached first base just before the pitcher.
- This play contributed to the Mets’ eventual 8-4 victory, further solidifying his role as a team leader.
Game-Changing Energy
After the game, Iglesias reflected on his journey, stating, “What can I say? I think the game has not treated me fairly. But I received this opportunity. Everything else remains in the past.” His mindset and resilience have become infectious throughout the Mets’ locker room.
Notable Career Highlights
Before his time with the Mets, Iglesias had an impressive career filled with ups and downs:
| Team | Years Active | Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| Boston Red Sox | 2011-2013 | Part of the team during World Series run |
| Detroit Tigers | 2013-2018 | Selected as an All-Star in 2015 |
| Cincinnati Reds | 2019 | Solidifying his defense at shortstop |
| Baltimore Orioles | 2020 | Offensive stability as a utility player |
| Los Angeles Angels | 2021 | Contributed significantly before trade |
| Colorado Rockies | 2022 | Continued to showcase versatility |
Benefits of José Iglesias’s Impact on the Mets
Iglesias’s contribution extends beyond the statistics on the field. His presence has reinvigorated the Mets in several key ways:
- Team Morale: His infectious energy and upbeat personality have lifted the locker room atmosphere.
- Fan Engagement: The performance of “OMG” has created a deeper fan connection, enhancing the game day experience.
- On-Field Performance: His solid batting and energetic defense have bolstered the team’s overall performance.
Real-Life Experiences: Teammates Share Their Thoughts
Teammates have lauded Iglesias not just as a player but as a locker room leader:
Tyrone Taylor, after witnessing Iglesias’s critical play, expressed, “When I heard everyone screaming, I thought, ‘Oh, he got it!’ He brings that energy we thrive on.”
What Lies Ahead for Iglesias and the Mets
As the Mets continue to chase postseason success, José Iglesias stands at the forefront, exemplifying both resilience and talent. His journey from the minors to becoming a key player in the playoffs represents not only his personal achievements but serves as an inspiration for aspiring athletes everywhere.