Jose Iglesias, the New York Mets infielder, has not only made headlines with his performance on the field but also as the creator of the unofficial anthem for the team. Since around June 2024, Mets fans have been eagerly waving the "OMG" signs during games, signaling their enthusiasm and unwavering support. But what does the "OMG" signify?
While the acronym typically stands for “oh my God,” for Mets supporters, it carries special significance. Iglesias, under his alter ego "Candelita," wrote and released a vibrant song titled "OMG" which celebrates blessings and success. The catchy chorus, filled with vibrant pop rhythms and reggaetón influences, has become synonymous with the Mets’ fun-loving spirit.
One of the standout lyrics of the song, "Oh my god! Todo lo malo échalo pa’ allá / Oh my god! Dame salúd y prosperidad," translates roughly to “Oh my God! Take all the bad and chase it away / Oh my God! Bring me good health and prosperity.” These uplifting messages struck a chord with fans, turning the song rapidly from mere entertainment to the heartbeat of the Mets' community.
During one memorable game against the Houston Astros, Iglesias took his enthusiasm to another level by performing "OMG" live at Citi Field, cementing its status as the team's unofficial theme song. The strong connection forged between the song and the fandom even gained traction when Iglesias released a remix featuring superstar Pitbull and Colombian singer Silvestre Dangond, which jumped to the top of the charts.
But the significance of “OMG” extends beyond simply being catchy. It symbolizes hope and resilience, embodying the essence of underdog spirit often celebrated by sports teams and their fans. It serves as a reminder of the community’s roots, particularly among the diverse Hispanic populations who find representation and pride through Iglesias’s music.
Fans quickly began to adopt and replicate the "OMG" signs at games, illustrating their collective support and enthusiasm. It's not uncommon to see creative displays of team spirit, reminiscent of the Pittsburgh Steelers' Terrible Towels or the Philadelphia Flyers' Gritty mascot. Each of these symbols has its unique story, and the "OMG" sign has swiftly begun its own legacy within the annals of Mets folklore.
The vibrant atmosphere created by the song and its message not only uplifts the players but also unites fans during each game. Iglesias's composition has evolved from being just another pop song to becoming emblematic of the energy within the stadium seats. Onlookers have even noted the impact the release of the remix has had during the National League Championship Series against the Los Angeles Dodgers.
Notably, Iglesias's rise to fame and the popularity of the song come on the heels of challenges he faced earlier in his career. At one point, he found himself spending the entire previous season playing minor league baseball with unanswered questions about his future. It was during this tumultuous period he turned to music, crafting songs under the name Candelita to reignite his passion and creativity. The upbeat tunes he created seem to have provided him with the necessary spark, culminating with the production of "OMG" — the anthem he never knew would take hold.
Besides the fun pop melodies and lyrics, music plays a central role within the culture of baseball. It functions as the backdrop to each game, not just for players but also for fans alike. The melodies energize the crowd, turning simple moments — such as home runs —into grand celebrations. After each Mets home run, the ballpark erupts with Iglesias’s anthem, and smiling players proudly pose for photos adorned with “OMG” signs, creating enduring memories to cherish.
"OMG" continues to resonate as the Mets advance through their playoff run. After clinching victory after victory, the team celebrated numerous champagne showers, with Iglesias’s anthem underscoring each moment of triumph. With three joyous celebrations already enjoyed, there seems to be no stopping the vibrant spirit and energy on the field.
Not only does the song infuse the games with excitement, but it reflects the identities of the myriad fans and players who contribute to the team’s diverse heritage, from the children laughing under the glittering lights to the players embracing their cultures. Interestingly, Iglesias isn't the only athlete finding success within the music industry. Numerous baseball players have dipped their toes, creating notable musical achievements alongside their athletic careers, including legends such as Deion Sanders and Bernie Williams.
With such success already under his belt, Iglesias hinted at new musical projects brewing for the forthcoming seasons, teasing fans about another high-energy single set to make waves as part of the Mets' repertoire. While the exact release date remains unknown, it’s safe to say anticipation is growing among the Mets community.
With hopes of reaching the World Series and seeing the streets of New York echoing with "OMG!" the buzz around this anthem-like song shows no signs of waning. It has become more than just music; it's a movement for the underdogs. It embodies the spirit of perseverance and celebration, ensuring fans and players alike come together under the vibrant sound of Jose Iglesias's "OMG." The future looks bright for Mets and their remarkable anthem.
