NFL MVP Runner-Up Drake Maye Wears Dodgers Jersey at WBC in Tokyo

Maye and wife Ann Michael attend Japan's 8-6 win over Korea, drawing criticism from Boston fans for his choice of team apparel.

Published on Mar. 8, 2026

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New England Patriots star Drake Maye and his wife Ann Michael attended a World Baseball Classic game in Tokyo, Japan, where Maye was spotted wearing a Los Angeles Dodgers jersey, drawing criticism from Boston fans who expected him to don Red Sox gear. Despite the jersey faux pas, the couple witnessed a thrilling game that featured a standout performance from global superstar Shohei Ohtani.

Why it matters

As a prominent NFL player from the New England region, Maye's choice of Dodgers apparel at the international baseball tournament raised eyebrows among Boston sports fans who expected him to show support for the Red Sox. The incident highlights the passionate loyalty of New England sports fans and the scrutiny public figures face when their team allegiances don't align with local fan bases.

The details

Maye, the NFL MVP runner-up, and his wife Ann Michael attended Saturday's World Baseball Classic group stage matchup between Japan and Korea at the Tokyo Dome. While MLB posted a photo of the 'New England royalty' on the field, Boston fans were quick to notice that Maye was wearing a Dodgers jersey, presumably with Shohei Ohtani's number 17 on the back, despite having no direct affiliation with the team.

  • The World Baseball Classic game took place on Saturday, March 8, 2026.

The players

Drake Maye

A star quarterback for the New England Patriots who was the runner-up for the NFL MVP award.

Ann Michael Maye

Drake Maye's wife, who sported a Boston Red Sox hat during the couple's trip to Japan.

Shohei Ohtani

A global superstar baseball player who plays for the Japanese national team and the Los Angeles Angels in MLB.

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What’s next

It's unclear if Maye will face any backlash from Boston sports fans for his choice of jersey at the WBC game. However, the incident may prompt him to update his wardrobe with more Red Sox gear when he returns to New England.

The takeaway

Drake Maye's decision to wear a Dodgers jersey at the World Baseball Classic in Tokyo, despite being a star player for the New England Patriots, highlights the passionate loyalty of Boston sports fans and the scrutiny public figures face when their team allegiances don't align with local fan bases.