The ongoing intersection between tech and sports took another dramatic turn this week as Los Angeles Dodgers catcher Will Smith publicly criticized billionaire Elon Musk following a polarizing post on the X app (formerly Twitter). Musk’s recent comment comparing the Dodgers to the New York Yankees has sparked backlash from fans and players alike, culminating in Smith’s blunt message to Major League Baseball fans: delete the X app.

Elon Musk’s Dodgers-Yankees Comparison

The controversy began when Musk posted the following on X:

“The Dodgers are like the Yankees… but with less history and fewer rings. LA glitz can’t match Bronx legacy.”

While some interpreted the comment as playful sports banter, many Dodgers fans and players saw it as an unprovoked dig at a franchise that has become one of MLB’s most consistently successful teams in recent years.

The timing of Musk’s post, amid the Dodgers’ climb atop the NL West and surging playoff momentum, added fuel to the fire.

Will Smith Responds

Will Smith, known for his quiet leadership and strong presence behind the plate, surprised many by responding forcefully to Musk’s remarks. After the Dodgers’ 5–2 victory at Dodger Stadium on Tuesday night, Smith addressed the media and didn’t mince words:

“This app is just garbage now,” Smith said.
“You scroll through and it’s nothing but noise—misinformation, trolling, distractions. Elon’s post is just another example of how far it’s fallen. If you care about baseball and want to support players, delete the X app.”

His comments immediately went viral, with fans and players across the league taking sides in what has quickly become one of the most talked-about MLB-social media clashes of the year.

Players and Fans Rally Behind Smith

Several of Smith’s teammates, including Mookie Betts and Freddie Freeman, reportedly supported his comments privately, and some even liked or reposted Smith’s quote on Instagram. The hashtag #DeleteX began trending across sports communities online, echoing sentiments shared by other athletes frustrated with the current state of digital discourse.

Dodgers fans quickly rallied around Smith, defending the team’s legacy and its place as one of the most iconic franchises in baseball.

“We’re proud of our team. We don’t need Elon Musk using baseball to score cheap points,” wrote one fan account with over 50,000 followers.
“Respect the Dodgers or stay out of the conversation.”

Elon Musk Replies

As expected, Elon Musk responded on X to the backlash:

“Freedom of speech is still legal. If someone is triggered by baseball stats, maybe they need a day off the internet.”

He followed up with a post showing a comparison chart: Yankees – 27 World Series titles, Dodgers – 7. The response once again stirred debate, especially among those who feel Musk is using his platform to stoke division rather than contribute meaningfully to sports culture.

Dodgers Organization Issues Statement

While the Dodgers organization did not issue a direct statement about Musk or Smith’s remarks, a spokesperson acknowledged the growing concern around social media’s influence on athletes:

“We support our players speaking their minds in a respectful way. Will is a valued member of our team and clubhouse, and we respect his opinion.”

This incident marks one of the rare occasions where Will Smith, typically known for his calm demeanor and focus, has addressed off-field issues so directly.

The Bigger Picture: Social Media and Sports

This flare-up comes at a time when more professional athletes are reevaluating their relationship with social media platforms. The X app, since its rebranding and policy shifts under Musk’s leadership, has drawn criticism for promoting outrage-driven content over meaningful engagement.

Baseball journalist Buster Olney weighed in during a segment on ESPN:

“What we’re seeing is athletes reaching a breaking point. They’re tired of being dragged into digital drama when they just want to focus on the game. Will Smith’s message is clear—players want to reclaim the narrative from chaos.”

Looking Ahead

With the Dodgers poised for another deep playoff run, the last thing they need is off-field distractions. But Smith’s message isn’t about escaping pressure—it’s about protecting the integrity of the sport from what many view as toxic noise.

“We work hard every single day,” Smith said.
“We play for the fans, for this city. Let’s keep the focus on baseball—not billionaires looking for attention.”