Mets' collapse in 2022 still being blamed on WFAN host

WFAN host Sal Licata enraged Atlanta Braves fans last year when his mockery of their tomahawk chop became a rebel yell for the New York Mets. On air, he’d routinely sing “The NL East is over” with the over part mimicking the well-known tribal chants of Braves fans.

This began when the Mets looked to have an insurmountable lead in the NL East. As we all suffered through, the Braves ended up catching the Mets.

Braves fans took glee in mocking Licata around the time when the Mets collapsed and saw themselves exit the postseason early. The harassment died down after the Braves were eliminated in their first postseason series, too. Some Mets fans, however, seem to still believe it’s Licata’s fault.

NY Mets fan and WFAN host Sal Licata can’t catch a break from ruthless listeners

Licata brings daytime energy to the WFAN overnights. If you’re a night owl or someone who has to wake up regularly for work, you’ve probably caught him on one of his witching hour rants at some point. Edwin Diaz received the brunt of his scorn in the past. His redemption and the improvement of the Mets has created a much different Sal Licata.

Needless to say, Licata had as much to do with the Mets’ collapse as you or I; unless you’re reading this and you played for the team last year. In which case, shame on you and can I get an autograph? It’s for my kid. We have the same name, I swear. I don’t even know what eBay is.

Licata is becoming an important voice in New York sports in representing Mets fans. While some of the other shows on WFAN will focus more on comedy, his presence after Mets games throughout the 2023 season will be a welcomed presence—for better or worse.

I’ve disagreed with him on plenty of Mets subjects but in this instance, he’s absolutely right to be the Terry Collins to this caller’s Tom Hallion. Even if his utmost faith in the Mets to get it done last year reached the Braves, the responsibility falls on the players, coaches, and whatever that stuff was behind Joe Musgrove’s ear.