Mets' Syndergaard expects KC fans to provide hostile reception
PORT ST. LUCIE, Fla. -- New York Mets pitcher Noah Syndergaard expects a hostile reception when he takes the mound Tuesday in Kansas City.
Syndergaard's first pitch in Game 3 of the World Series last fall was a 98-mph fastball that went over the head of shortstop Alcides Escobar. The Mets went on to a 9-3 win, their lone victory against the Royals.
Newsday, citing unidentified sources, reported Tuesday the Royals intend to get retribution during the opening two game-series, which starts Sunday.
"I don't think they're too fond of me," Syndergaard said Wednesday. "But as far as retaliation goes, I don't know what they're going to retaliate against. All I did was establish the inner-side part of the plate. So I don't know what this whole retaliation talk is all about. But it's going to be an interesting time."
"I just simply threw a pitch on the inside corner -- elevated. Purpose pitch. I don't really see how any retaliation can be made."
Syndergaard said many Mets fans approached him on the streets of New York during the offseason and "applauded that pitch."
He anticipates a rowdy Royals crowd, but said he's not concerned.
"I do a pretty good job of canceling excess noises out and just focusing on me and the catcher," he said.
