Philadelphia fan embraces boos after missed catch during Home Run Derby

A 17-year-old volunteer at Citizens Bank Park was booed by Philadelphia fans after he failed to catch a pop-up during the first round of the Home Run Derby. Reed Weiner, a recent Harriton High School graduate, was shuffling baseballs with a friend when the ball slipped past his glove, prompting a loud reaction that quickly spread on social media.

Weiner said the boos felt like an "honor" and reflected the passionate atmosphere he enjoys at Phillies games. He added that the missed catch was the only error he made that night and that the overall experience was "electric," with fans shouting and even offering money for balls.

He explained that he misread the ball’s trajectory, noting that pop-ups often travel farther than they appear, especially in the bright stadium lights. The incident made him an internet sensation, drawing messages from family, friends and fellow fans.

Weiner’s parents reacted with mixed feelings; his father was excited about the sudden fame, while his mother, a Mets fan, expressed disdain for the Philadelphia crowd. The teenager said he regularly boos opposing players and teams, a habit he displayed during recent playoff games as well.

"I loved that," Weiner said of the boos. "I think it’s an honor, to be honest."

"I deserved those boos, but I liked it. If I didn’t get those boos, I would’ve never remembered this," he added.

The episode highlights the intense fan culture surrounding the Derby and the role of volunteers who help keep the event running.