It’s a cliché that rappers want to be big and people who want to be big want to be rappers, but Mets’ Jose Iglesias is actually living both dreams.
With MLB’s All-Star break starting on Monday, the 34-year-old rookie headed to Arlington, Texas, to take part in the celebrations, though not as a player.
Instead, Iglesias performed his smash hit single “OMG” in front of fans surrounded by cheerleaders dressed in All-Star uniforms.
The infielder swapped his usual blue, orange and white uniform for an all-black look reminiscent of the pop star’s Grammy Awards uniform.
“This is a once in a lifetime opportunity,” Iglesias said Sunday. “I’ve been to All-Star as a player, and now I get to be there as a singer, so that’s pretty amazing, right? It’s kind of a surprise. … I’m very honored to have this opportunity.”
“OMG” has steadily grown in popularity since its release on June 28, becoming one of the most popular Latin American songs worldwide.
In fact, Iglesias’ song “Candelita” still ranks at No. 4 on iTunes’ Top 100 Latin Songs chart.
The “OMG” chorus may best apply to Iglesias’ incredible 2024 season.
Iglesias, who did not play an MLB game in 2023, appeared in 30 games with the Mets, batting .380 with a .999 OPS and earning 1.1 wins above replacement, the same number as slugger Pete Alonso.
Iglesias’s impressive performance and international fame come alongside a remarkable turnaround for the Mets overall.
Since “OMG” debuted, the Mets have compiled a 9-7 record, including winning seven of eight games.
The team has won its last three series against the Rockies, Nationals and Pirates.
The Mets, who entered the All-Star break with a 49-46 record and hold the final National League wild-card spot, will be hoping their recent success is more representative of their awful start and that Iglesias can put in an even more flashy performance after the win.
Within the broad schedule of All-Star events, Iglesias’ game serves as the undercard for the Home Run Derby.
