Jefry Yan's Viral Mound Celebrations Reflect His Energetic Personality

The journeyman left-hander has made a name for himself with his enthusiastic on-field celebrations in winter ball.

Feb. 4, 2026 at 4:55pm

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Jefry Yan, a 29-year-old left-handed pitcher, has gained attention for his energetic celebrations on the mound during his time playing in the Dominican League (LIDOM) and the Caribbean Series. Yan, who recently signed a minor league contract with the New York Mets, describes himself as a "cheerful, electric guy" who enjoys engaging with the crowd and supporting his teammates. Despite his lively expressions, Yan says he hasn't had any issues with opponents or teammates, as he's simply trying to have fun and enjoy the moment.

Why it matters

Yan's viral celebrations have helped him build a following among winter ball fans, and his infectious enthusiasm for the game could make him a fan favorite if he is able to reach the Major Leagues with the Mets. His story also highlights the unique culture and passion of baseball in the Caribbean region.

The details

Yan, who began his professional career with the Angels in 2013 and has since played in various minor league and international leagues, says he's always been an energetic and cheerful player who likes to have fun on the field. His celebrations, which often feature him leaping off the mound after key outs, have made him a viral sensation, with fans and opponents alike enjoying his enthusiasm. Yan says he hasn't had any issues with his celebrations, as he's simply trying to support his team and engage with the crowd.

  • Yan signed a minor league contract with the New York Mets in August 2025.
  • Yan is currently participating in the 2026 Caribbean Series, where he is trying to help the Leones del Escogido become only the fourth team in the tournament's history to repeat as champion.

The players

Jefry Yan

A 29-year-old left-handed pitcher who has gained attention for his energetic celebrations on the mound while playing in the Dominican League and the Caribbean Series. He recently signed a minor league contract with the New York Mets.

Leones del Escogido

The baseball team Yan is currently playing for in the 2026 Caribbean Series, as they look to become only the fourth team in the tournament's history to repeat as champion.

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What they’re saying

“A cheerful, electric guy, is how Yan described himself. 'I like it, especially when I'm competing and things go well for me. I like supporting my team, cheering the guys on, always being in sync with them and celebrating every time we get an out — or they get an out. And also engaging with the crowd.'”

— Jefry Yan, Pitcher

“'Honestly, it's the best thing in the world,' Yan, who came into Wednesday with two scoreless innings and three strikeouts in two appearances in the tournament, said of the experience. 'It's the first time I've been to a Caribbean Series, and I'm very happy, very glad to be here, mainly doing my job and helping my team keep winning.'”

— Jefry Yan, Pitcher

What’s next

Yan will report to the New York Mets' spring training camp in Port St. Lucie, Florida, in the coming days, as he looks to finally reach the Major Leagues after a long and winding professional career.

The takeaway

Jefry Yan's infectious enthusiasm and passion for the game of baseball have made him a fan favorite in the Dominican League and the Caribbean Series, and his story highlights the unique culture and energy of winter ball in the Caribbean region. If he can continue to perform well, his viral celebrations could help him gain a following with Mets fans as he pursues his dream of reaching the Major Leagues.