On August 15, the New York Mets welcomed Hailey Welch, popularly known as the “Hawk Tuah Girl,” to throw out the ceremonial first pitch before their series finale against the Oakland A’s at Citi Field. Welch gained viral fame through a spontaneous street interview, which led to her being introduced by the Mets as a “viral sensation.”
However, the decision to have her throw the first pitch sparked immediate backlash. Some critics in the stands, as well as long-time New York/New Jersey sports radio host Mike Francesa, were particularly vocal. Francesa, known for his blunt opinions, took issue with the Mets’ choice.
“I know she’s enjoying her 15 minutes of fame, but it all started because she gave some sleazy answer to a man-on-the-street question,” Francesa said at the time, as reported by the New York Post. “Her fleeting fame is based on something suggestive, so why on earth would the Mets bring her in to throw the first ball? And, of all days, on camp day, with kids present.”
Francesa didn’t hold back, adding, “I’ve said many times, and it’s been true through the ownership change, that the Mets could screw up a one-car funeral.”
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To make matters worse for the Mets, they blew a five-run lead in that game, which further fueled Francesa’s and others’ criticism. But in an interesting turn of events, the Mets’ fortunes dramatically improved after Welch’s appearance. The team has posted a league-best 18-7 record since that day, silencing some of their detractors.
Nearly a month after Francesa’s comments, Welch decided it was time to respond. In a laid-back post on X (formerly Twitter), she shared a clip of radio host Peter Rosenberg coming to her defense.
“When will the gasbags come out and say sorry to Hailey Welch, a.k.a. formerly—because she’s moved beyond it—formerly ‘Hawk Tuah Girl?’ When will they give her her credit?” Rosenberg remarked in the clip. Welch’s post was simple, yet effectively addressed the lingering criticism.
While Welch may have gained her fame in a lighthearted and perhaps controversial way, her involvement at the Mets game wasn’t just about capitalizing on viral fame. She was there on behalf of America’s Vet Dogs, a charity dedicated to providing service animals to veterans and first responders — a cause she passionately supports.
This significant detail was notably absent from Francesa’s critique, and it’s unlikely an apology will be forthcoming from the veteran sports commentator.
As for Welch, her “15 minutes of fame” seem far from over.
