Drake Maye, the New England Patriots quarterback, attended the recent World Baseball Classic game between Japan and Korea with his wife, Anne Michael Maye. The game, held in Tokyo Dome, featured Japan’s victory over Korea, 8-6, led by MLB star Shohei Ohtani. Maye was seen wearing a Los Angeles Dodgers jersey, sparking controversy among Boston-area fans due to the longstanding rivalry between Boston and L.A. baseball teams. The incident quickly drew attention as Maye’s jersey choice became a point of debate.
Boston Fans React Strongly to Maye’s Jersey Selection
Many fans from New England expressed their displeasure with Maye’s decision to wear a Dodgers jersey. The rivalry between the Boston Red Sox and the Dodgers is well-known, and some local supporters felt Maye, a New England figure, should have shown allegiance to the Red Sox. Comments shared on social media reflected this sentiment.
Get that man a new jersey!
one wrote.
Dude. Drake man. NEVER wear a Dodger jersey again. It’s Redsox only bro,
another fan posted.
He’s my QB, but where’s the Red Sox jersey? And I’m saying that as a Braves fan. Haha. 🙂
one added.
Defenders Cite Personal Preferences and Regional Factors
Conversely, other fans defended Maye’s choice, emphasizing personal background and individual preferences. Given that Maye is from North Carolina, a state without a Major League Baseball team, some believe his loyalty to the Dodgers or favorite player Shohei Ohtani is understandable. Additionally, several pointed out that sports fans often support teams outside of their local region.
Man… He is from NC. They don’t have a baseball Team and his favorite player growing up was probably a Dodger so he became a fan or he is a fan of S.O. Even myself as a Boston native was a huge fan of Kobe despite being a C’s lifer I own a Kobe jersey,
one supporter said.
Tom Brady doesn’t even root for the patriots and pats fans mad that Drake Maye is wearing a dodgers jersey,
another remarked.
World Baseball Classic Progresses as Controversy Unfolds
The World Baseball Classic continues with more games scheduled, including on Monday. Meanwhile, the Drake Maye jersey controversy highlights how sports fandom can spark passionate reactions, especially when allegiances involve longstanding rivalries. This incident may influence how public figures in sports navigate their affiliations in the future, particularly when appearing in high-profile international events.
