New York Mets' new signing might have the most unforgettable name in sports history

New York Mets roster moves are a dime a dozen this time of year; however, the Mets pulled off headlines across baseball on Monday, bringing aboard a player by the name that turns heads and raises eyebrows.

Before the game in Atlanta on Tuesday night, the team formally selected the contract of left-handed reliever Dicky Lovelady. While he's spent a handful of seasons bouncing around the MLB, it's now the name on the back of his jersey that is catching some headlines. A logical fit for the 29-year-old pitcher, who used to go by Richard Lovelady, the nickname ‘Dicky’ has seemingly taken off overnight, complete with all of the hype that is the World Series.

Dicky Lovelady Mets signing adds experience to bullpen

Dicky Lovelady has flown under the radar, turning himself into a solid journeyman career in professional baseball. The Kansas City Royals originally drafted him, and he debuted in the big leagues in 2018, pitching in parts of five seasons for multiple teams. He had previously been in the Minnesota Twins minor league system and was on the Toronto Blue Jays roster for a short time earlier this season before being claimed off waivers by the Mets.

It didn't last long in Toronto, but was quickly designated for assignment after a couple of rough performances.

Although Lovelady has spent his fair share of time in limbo, his left-handed arm and faithful experience have granted him plenty of opportunities. He arrives in the Mets’ bullpen with a lifetime 5.26 ERA in 110 big league appearances. Those aren't exactly All-Star numbers, but the Mets, facing injuries and inconsistency in their bullpen, see Lovelady as potentially useful depth.

Dicky Lovelady name sparks viral reaction among MLB fans

Lovelady may have gone through ups and downs as a pitcher, but his name is turning heads more than it ever has. Despite having called himself ‘Richard’ for nearly his entire career, the Mets have officially listed him as ‘Dicky’ on their roster, an obvious wink at a name that has already turned up quite a bit in social media.Also Read: Mike Piazza’s brutal honesty exposes harsh reality of being a superstar in New York MetsIt has been called one of the most unerasable names in sports history by fans as well as sports commentators. The new name also gives Lovelady a distinct essence in the league, whether this was intentional or not, and maybe a new start. This may just be the start of the Dicky Lovelady legend if he comes through for the Mets. At the very least, Mets fans have a new name to chant from the stands.