The Philadelphia Phillies fan base has long been recognized as one of the most passionate—and brutally honest—in all of sports. Known for their unwavering loyalty, they’re also unafraid to voice their displeasure, even when it comes to their own team. That intensity was on full display Tuesday night when fans at Citizens Bank Park booed manager Rob Thomson for not bringing in Jhoan Durán despite a comfortable five-run lead.
Durán’s arrival in Philadelphia has sparked excitement among fans, and they were eager to see him pitch. But Thomson wasn’t the only one to hear the boos recently—Max Kepler has found himself on the receiving end as well.
Kepler, an 11-year MLB veteran, has struggled this season, slashing just .204/.295/.366. His underwhelming performance was one reason the Phillies acquired outfielder Harrison Bader at the trade deadline. Earlier in the season, Kepler voiced frustration about limited playing time, but he has since embraced his platoon role, primarily starting against left-handed pitchers.
After Tuesday night’s 9–2 win over the Orioles—where Kepler delivered a strong performance with two hits, two RBIs, and a home run—he addressed the fans’ reaction with levity.
“I think it’s their love language,” Kepler said of the boos, according to The Philadelphia Inquirer’s Scott Lauber.
Despite the criticism, Kepler now appears focused on team success above all else.
“At this point, I’ve accepted it,” he continued. “It’s a collective thing moving forward. We want to win ballgames, and I’m going to do whatever I have to do to be a part of this puzzle. I think everyone in that so-called platoon is accepting of that and understanding of that.”
