Francisco Lindor (12) and Javier Baez (23) do the thumbs-down celebration. Wendell Cruz-USA TODAY Sports

Javier Baez explains why Mets use thumbs-down celebration after big hits

By Erin Walsh | Last updated 8/29/21

New York Mets star Javier Baez explained why he and his teammates are using a thumbs-down celebration toward the Citi Field crowd following big hits after Sunday's 9-4 win over the Washington Nationals.

The 28-year-old told reporters that the thumbs-down celebration is being used in response to Mets fans booing the team, per SNY.

Javier Báez says the thumbs down celebration is in response to the fans booing the team

"I play for the fans and I love the fans but if they're gonna do that, they're putting more pressure on the team" pic.twitter.com/cjUER4M2Pt
— SNY (@SNYtv) August 29, 2021

Mets fans have been frustrated over the last month while watching their beloved team fall out of first in the National League East. New York is third in the division with a 63-67 record, 7.5 games behind the first-place Atlanta Braves and out of a playoff spot.

In addition, the Mets have struggled mightily at the plate throughout the season, failing to drive in runs while the pitching staff does its best on the mound.

Mets owner Steve Cohen recently called out the club's unproductive hitters, saying, "The best teams have a more disciplined approach" at the plate.

The Mets entered the 2021 campaign with high expectations after signing both James McCann and Francisco Lindor. Those expectations heightened after the organization acquired Baez from the Chicago Cubs at the trade deadline.

However, injuries have hampered the club this year, and ace Jacob deGrom is currently sidelined, as is David Peterson, which makes matters worse.

If something doesn't change, the Mets will miss the playoffs for the fifth consecutive season.

More must-reads: