Jefry Yan’s Energetic Celebration Captivates Mets Fans

New York Mets fans are captivated by Jefry Yan’s energetic celebration moves when he strikes out a batter. His actions have become a social media sensation. However, on Saturday afternoon during the Mets’ thrilling walk-off win over the Washington Nationals, Yan got overly exuberant.

Jefry Yan made his Citi Field debut in front of an enthusiastic crowd. With an 0-2 count and two outs in the top of the ninth, Yan believed he had struck out Nasim Nuñez with a perfectly placed fastball on the outside corner. The home plate umpire disagreed, but Yan had already leapt into his characteristic celebration.

After realizing that strike three wasn’t called, Yan tapped the top of his hat to challenge the call, leading to an ABS (Automated Ball-Strike System) review. The review confirmed the umpire’s call for a ball, maintaining the count.

The humorous moment was highlighted by Mets play-by-play announcer Gary Cohen on the SNY broadcast. Once the laughter subsided, Yan refocused. Two pitches later, he successfully struck out Nuñez with a slider, this time celebrating appropriately.

At that point, the Mets were trailing by a run as they entered the bottom of the ninth inning. Brett Baty initiated the inning with a walk, setting the stage for Jorge Polanco’s single, which advanced the winning run to scoring position. Francisco Alvarez then doubled, tying the game as Baty scored and the potential winning run reached third base.

Francisco Lindor completed the Mets’ rally by singling to bring home the winning run, ending the game on a high note. Yan secured his first career Major League Baseball win after pitching 1.2 scoreless innings.

Yan, a 29-year-old rookie, began his year in the minors. There, he gained attention for his unique celebration after recording strikeouts. This joyful routine has entertained fans through his first five appearances for the Mets. Going forward, Yan may double-check that the umpire’s call aligns before beginning his leap. Yet, this excitement was fueled by the chance to celebrate with Mets fans at home.

In his first appearance at Citi Field, Yan expressed feeling welcomed, using a translator to convey his appreciation. On Saturday, Yan struck out three hitters and earned a 1.80 ERA.