Justin Verlander praised the New York Mets and his former teammates Monday, a day after a report portrayed him as a “diva.”
The Mets traded the three-time Cy Young Award winner to the Houston Astros at the trade deadline for a pair of prospects. Billed as a World Series contender heading into the season, the Mets have instead been one of the biggest disappointments.
A New York Post report Sunday quoted an anonymous Mets player, who claimed Verlander acted like a diva, complained about the team’s analytics department and was “largely detached” from his teammates. That supposedly strained his relationship with fellow pitching ace Max Scherzer.
Without mentioning that report, Verlander appeared to address the issue Monday on Twitter.
“I want to say that I have nothing but respect for the Mets organization and I enjoyed connecting with all my teammates this season … new and old!!” It truly was a wonderful group of people,” Verlander posted.
“That being said, we all know the success of a team is made up of more than just the players on the field, everyone’s input is valuable. I’m sorry to hear that a staff member took offense to constructive criticism on how we could improve.
“Wishing nothing but the best for the Mets moving forward.”
— Justin Verlander (@JustinVerlander) August 14, 2023
Baseball fans had mixed feelings on Verlander’s statement, but Astros fans are thrilled to have him back in Houston. He pitched five seasons there before signing with the Mets last offseason.
Honestly I might be rooting for the Astros just because of this guy 👏🏼
— Robert Rodriguez Music (@RobertRodMusic) August 14, 2023
Blink twice if PR made you post this
— DJ (@HowieLosBravos) August 14, 2023
We are glad you are home where you belong! Thank you Mr. Cohen!
— Shari Goldsberry (@sharigoldsberry) August 14, 2023
Was short, but nothing but class from you. Good luck back in Houston. 🫡
— Casey (@CaseyJ_516) August 14, 2023
Respected it. Hate the Astros but like you as a player
— JokicBedAh🤑 (@RipsAndSlips) August 14, 2023
You are true class. Glad you’re back where you belong.
— Proud Texan (@jim_lewis1018) August 14, 2023
Your Mets tenure was too brief. You’re the best pitcher of your generation. Best of luck in Houston and the rest of your HOF career!
— Ben Whetstone (@Benny1Arm) August 14, 2023
I expected better. Obvi if the team played well and to their expectations, he could have changed my opinion and it looks like he’s on track to do that, but he never got the chance. In the end, he wasn’t worth close to his contract maybe half 😂😂
— Jet up (@nick_cro) August 14, 2023
About Arthur Weinstein
Arthur spends his free time traveling around the U.S. to sporting events, state and national parks, and in search of great restaurants off the beaten path.