Former Mets folk hero Jose Iglesias happy to be home in Citi Field return for first pitch
Jose Iglesias was back at Citi Field, back in Queens, where he enjoyed one of the most memorable seasons of his major league career.The former Met threw out the ceremonial first pitch before Tuesday’s 5-2 loss to the Padres and was warmly greeted by the crowd, given a standing ovation.The Mets played a highlight video on the big screen, accompanied by his hit song, “OMG.” Join Post Sports+ for exciting subscriber-only features, including real-time texting with Mike Puma about the inside buzz on the Mets.
“It’s great, extremely happy to see smiles everywhere and the way they opened the door for me was special one more time,” he said.“Extremely, extremely happy to be home.
It’s a lot of emotions right now.Being in this part of the field, sitting on this bench reminds me of great moments.”Iglesias, 36, threw the first pitch to Francisco Lindor.
It was a strike.Iglesias was a key part of the 2024 Mets, who after a poor first two months of the season reached the NLCS.He said it was a season he won’t forget and one he will cherish.Iglesias spent last season with the Padres and is now entering a new phase of his life, although he hasn’t closed the door on his baseball career.He is set to join the cast of the Broadway musical Buena Vista Social Club on Aug.
27 in the role of the narrator.Iglesias will make history as the first Latino MLB player to appear on Broadway.“I did not expect that call at all.
It was an automatic yes,” he said.“Coming back to New York and delivering the energy and now in this case representing Cuban music as an immigrant, it’s a privilege.“I’m surrounded by great teammates.
They support me on a daily basis, they know this is totally new for me.It’s a fun responsibility I have with my hands.
I’m grabbing it with two hands like I would a ground ball and I won’t let it go.”Christopher Morel, called up Monday from Triple-A Syracuse, got the start Tuesday.The 27-year-old was hitting well in the minor l...