“He’s Lying Like Hell”: Pittsburgh Pirates Star’s Cold Response to Wander Franco’s Viral Play Divides the MLB World

It’s only May, but the Tampa Bay Rays are making headlines yet again. After their recent win against the Pittsburgh Pirates, fans are only delighted. But while a lot of moments contributed to the Rays’ 8-1 victory, most were talking about one player and one move on the field. Who? Wandy Franco and his cocky ball flip, of course. Amid mixed reactions from fans, the sentiment that was reflected the most was that Franco is making baseball fun again.

It’s no secret that MLB viewership has dropped in recent years, with fan interest diverging toward other sports. In an attempt to keep everyone engaged, whether, at the stadium or viewers watching at home, the league has introduced some new rules this year. And while they have undoubtedly made the game shorter, some believe something like Franco’s play is what will truly entertain people. But of course, one Pittsburgh Pirates star is unimpressed.

Bryan Reynolds remains impassive against Wander Franco

When the Rays’ shortstop made his flip and throw, it was a grounder that was thrown by Bryan Reynolds of the Pittsburgh Pirates. Even when Franco took his time to make the play, Reynolds still wasn’t able to make it to first base. It was the top of the seventh inning and the Tampa Bay team was already in a significant lead.

The Pirates’ outfielder, a usually fast runner, had a simple statement to make when asked about how he felt later. “I saw it. It didn’t impress me,” he said. Of course, Franco’s clip went viral on social media, being re-shared hundreds of times.

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But so did Reynolds’ response, the reaction to which fans are still deciding – was it justified or is the 28-year-old being a killjoy?

MLB fans stand divided on the?Pittsburgh Pirates star’s response

If one has seen basketball games, they’ll know that players sometimes add a little flair to their slam dunks. But while it’s common to see uncommon moves on the hard court, MLB is not used to such plays. Some fans are defending Franco’s polarizing move, urging the rest to see it for what it is – fun baseball.

Some came to Reynolds’ defense about how his response was appropriate for the situation.

One baseball fan explained exactly why the others were loving it.

While some thought any shortstop in MLB could do it.

What do you think? Could Reynolds’ response have been better or is it completely just, given the situation?

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