New York Mets Apologize After Mr. Met Gives Fan the Finger

The New York Mets apologized late Wednesday after the team’s mascot was caught on video making an obscene hand gesture at a fan as the team was getting pummeled by the Milwaukee Brewers.

Footage shows the mascot, Mr. Met, whipping around to give the baseball fan in the stands the middle finger and then turning and walking away. The 3-second clip was posted on Twitter, where it has been shared nearly 2,000 times.

The Mets condemned the incident in a statement, saying it does “not condone” the mascot’s behavior. “We apologize for the inappropriate action of this employee,” the statement said. “We are dealing with this matter internally.”

There is more than one employee who represents Mr. Met. The worker who donned the costume Wednesday will not reprise the role, according to the Associated Press, which cited an anonymous Mets official.

It’s unclear what prompted the reaction from Mr. Met, who is known for his baseball-shaped head. Fans in the stand, apparently amused by the mascot’s unexpected gesture, can be heard erupting in laughter.

The Mets ended up losing 7-1 to the Brewers at Citi Field.