Weaver Explains Yankees Bag Controversy After Joining Mets

New Mets reliever Luke Weaver addresses carrying a Yankees bag to his first Mets spring training

Feb. 11, 2026 at 7:47am

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Luke Weaver, the former Yankees closer who recently signed with the Mets, addressed the controversy over him arriving to spring training in Port St. Lucie with a Yankees bag. Weaver explained that it was simply a matter of logistics, as the Mets did not provide him with a new duffle bag and he didn't have anything else to use. He made it clear that he is fully committed to the Mets now and is excited to help the team win trophies.

Why it matters

The cross-town rivalry between the Yankees and Mets means that any perceived slight or connection to the other team is often scrutinized by fans and the media. Weaver's use of a Yankees bag, even if innocuous, was bound to draw attention and speculation.

The details

Weaver said he "personally didn't have like, besides grocery bags or something, I just didn't really have anything to put my stuff in." He acknowledged that "Part of me is like, yeah, I don't necessarily want to take the Yankees bag because I'm not a Yankee, but I know this is just a normal process." Weaver noted that it's common for players to use their old bags when reporting to a new team, as the new team doesn't immediately provide them with new gear.

  • Weaver arrived at Mets spring training in Port St. Lucie, Florida in February 2026.

The players

Luke Weaver

A 32-year-old relief pitcher who recently signed a two-year, $22 million contract with the New York Mets after playing for the New York Yankees for the past two-plus seasons.

Devin Williams

The Mets' new closer, who also previously played for the Yankees.

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What they’re saying

“I thought it was a bit silly, personally. I understand why people are — I wouldn't say an uproar, but why they're talking about it. I get it. To your point, it's very common to bring your old bad to your new team. They don't first-class airmail a new bag, so I didn't get a new bag from the Mets, like a duffle bag.”

— Luke Weaver, New Mets Reliever

“I just need people to take a deep breath, know that I love the Mets now. I'm a Met. I love where I'm at. I love the teammates so far, I hope to win as many trophies as possible here, and I hope to do that with the fans behind us and rooting for me and doing so.”

— Luke Weaver, New Mets Reliever

What’s next

Weaver will look to bounce back in 2026 after a down year in 2025, and help the Mets reach the playoffs as part of the bullpen bridge to closer Devin Williams.

The takeaway

While the use of a Yankees bag caused a minor stir, Weaver's comments show he is fully committed to the Mets and focused on helping the team win. The cross-town rivalry means even small details like this will be scrutinized, but Weaver seems unfazed and ready to contribute to the Mets' success.