There’s only one choice.
Photo: Erik Pendzich/Shutterstock
In a significant World Series game one, the New York Yankees will square off against the Los Angeles Dodgers on Friday night. This matchup harkens back to the days of the Dodgers in Brooklyn and features an impressive roster of future Hall of Famers, including the remarkable Shohei Ohtani, the batting wizard Juan Soto, and the larger-than-life Aaron Judge. Despite the Yankees’ strong record of not having a losing season in over thirty years, they have been conspicuously absent from World Series contention since their 2009 victory. A sense of normalcy has returned, much to the delight of New York — the authentic New York. Yet, after spending any time in the city’s brownstone neighborhoods or observing the constant “LFGM” chatter online, one might mistakenly conclude that it’s a Mets town.
After struggling to mediocre performance for a considerable stretch, the Mets experienced a late-season surge that propelled them into the playoffs, bringing them tantalizingly close to the World Series. The team’s underdog spirit was embodied by connections to Grimace (the Happy Meal character), a popular song called “OMG,” and a “lucky pumpkin” embraced by slugger Pete Alonso, boosting their allure among casual baseball fans. As the playoffs unfolded, blue-and-orange attire became prevalent throughout the streets. “Ya Gotta Believe” serves as the Mets’ rallying cry, and their devoted followers turned out in large numbers. Who wouldn’t want to join that enthusiastic gathering?
However, one should be cautious as appearances can be misleading. The Mets may not have won the city’s heart as much as they captivated the gentrifying demographic: media figures, political aides, socially conscious lawyers, Brooklyn newcomers, and Twitter enthusiasts. Even prior to this season, these groups had a tendency to rally behind the Mets — largely because, not in spite of, their less illustrious history compared to the
Yankees. The team representing Queens boasts two championships, in stark contrast to the Bronx Bombers’ impressive 27. This notable gap allows those who may not feel entirely secure in their status as New Yorkers, or who are uneasy about their fortunes in life, to don the team’s colors as symbols of resilience and authenticity. Although these fans may not belong to the working class, they forge a connection with the team to celebrate the city’s underdog ethos.
New York stands as the world’s wealthiest city, brimming with confidence and stark inequalities. While it isn’t actually an underdog, it often plays that role, with the Yankees symbolizing this essence. As devoted Yankees fans, we refer to our stadium simply as “the Stadium,” much like true New Yorkers call Manhattan “the City,” implying there’s only one possible reference at any moment. In comparison, the Mets’ homonymic ballpark, Citi Field, may sound classic, but it is named after a bank, complicating the team’s claimed blue-collar identity.
The Yankees radiate alpha confidence, attracting a fan base that embodies that same swagger. Denzel: fan. Jay-Z: fan. It’s hard to envision Jay-Z donning a Mets cap. In contrast, the roster of celebrity Mets supporters is limited, primarily consisting of comedians: Jerry Seinfeld, Jon Stewart, Kevin James. A Google search for “celebrities in Mets hats” yielded the best result as Jennifer Lopez in a Yankees cap.
One of the Yankees’ timeless attractions is their aesthetic: the sleek white-on-midnight-blue cap adorned only with the interlocking N-Y. This design is both elegant and masculine, contrasting sharply with the Mets’ more vibrant color palette and elaborate cap lettering. The Yankees avoid any ostentation or display of excess: no beards, no player names on jerseys. (The exception being the grounds crew performing the YMCA dance during every fifth inning.) It’s difficult to picture a children’s toy, like Grimace, achieving acceptance among Yankees fans. In the old Stadium, which was torn down after the 2008 season, the prime seating area was Section 39, dominated by the rowdiest and most spirited “Bleacher Creatures.” Whenever “the Wave” reached our section, we’d resist joining, shouting, “Keep the Wave at Shea,” a reference to Shea Stadium, where your team once played if you’re a newer Mets follower.
The Yankees, clad in their striking Gordon Gekko-style pinstripes, exude brazen capitalistic flair. They have acquired several championships without remorse. During the A-Rod era, the team was often labeled as the Evil Empire, a characterization that drew no outrage. This audacious approach clarifies the backing from figures like Rudy Giuliani, who became a prominent presence in the Bronx during the team’s championship run in the late 1990s.
Eric Adams recently donned an ambiguous Mets-Yankees hat, yet it’s clear that on some deeper level, our criminally charged mayor is a Yankees supporter.
However, it’s not merely the scoundrels and the affluent who feel a connection to the team. Last week, a local chapter of the Democratic Socialists of America conducted a poll on X, asking, “Which team represents the working class?” Among 463 responses, 16 percent selected the Dodgers, 21 percent favored the Yankees, while an astonishing 61 percent opted for the Mets. Incorrect! Fortunately, socialist magazine publisher Bhaskar Sunkara set the record straight: “The Yankees embody both the elite team of capital and the team of the working class.” The well-off resident of Fifth Avenue might cheer for either team, a different out-of-town squad, or none at all. However, it’s safe to assume that his doorman, residing in Washington Heights, is a Yankees supporter. This is because cheering for the Yankees represents an aspirational choice.
We reluctantly acknowledge that the Mets have several advantages. Citi Field offers a superior and more affordable experience compared to Yankee Stadium, featuring significantly better food. Mets fans infamously booed Bill de Blasio, a Red Sox supporter; good for them! The Mets’ television broadcast team—Keith Hernandez, Ron Darling, and Gary Cohn—is not only better than the overstuffed suits in the Yankees’ booth but is also the best in the entire league. Indeed, they’re so exceptional that one of us, Simon, often prefers watching the Mets over the Yankees solely for the quality of their broadcast.
Nonetheless, none of this elevates them to being New York’s team. We haven’t even touched on Steve Cohen yet. Although the Mets once had a claim to being the team of the common man, they forfeited that status after the excessively villainous billionaire—so brazen and audacious that he was temporarily barred from hedge fund management—acquired the team. The irony of the Mets’ commendable performance this season is that their payroll was the highest in baseball. Major League Baseball even introduced a new fee, called “the Cohen Tax,” aimed at curbing his ability to purchase any player he desires in the free market.
It’s not that we resent the Mets for their newfound wealth. It’s that they seem uncertain about how to allocate their financial resources. If the Cohen era has made the Mets more intimidating and ruthless—a Joker team contrasting the Bronx’s Batman—what could be more quintessentially New York than that? Yet, spending hundreds of millions of dollars — <a href="https://www.baseball-reference.com/teams/NYM/new-york-mets-salaries-
The New York Mets have allocated $45 million this year to two pitchers no longer on their roster — relying on narratives of misfortune, a story fitting for a lesser city. May Boss Steinbrenner rest in peace; he spent his funds with more flair.
To all Mets fans, whether you’re new or lifelong supporters: As you tune into game one of the World Series this Friday night, embrace the joy of cheering for Judge and the Yankees, who embody the very essence of this great city.
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# Yankees vs. Mets: The True Identity of New York’s Baseball Rivalry
New York City is a melting pot of cultures, traditions, and, of course, sports. Among the city’s rich tapestry of athletic competition, none is as storied or electrifying as the rivalry between the New York Yankees and the New York Mets. This article delves deep into this fierce rivalry, exploring its history, key moments, and the cultural significance it holds for New Yorkers.
## The Historical Context of the Rivalry
### A Tale of Two Teams
The **New York Yankees**, established in 1901, are one of the most successful franchises in sports history, boasting 27 World Series titles. Their rich history is filled with legendary players like Babe Ruth, Lou Gehrig, and Derek Jeter.
In contrast, the **New York Mets**, founded in 1962, were created to fill the void left by the departure of the Dodgers and Giants from New York. The Mets have won two World Series titles (1969 and 1986) and have become known for their underdog spirit and passionate fan base.
### First Encounters
– **Inaugural Games**: The first official game between the Yankees and the Mets occurred on June 16, 1997. The Yankees won, but this was just the beginning of a rivalry that would grow in intensity.
– **Interleague Play**: The introduction of interleague play in 1997 allowed these teams to face off regularly, further igniting the flames of competition.
## Key Moments in the Rivalry
### Memorable Games
1. **2000 Subway Series**: Perhaps the pinnacle of the rivalry, the 2000 Subway Series saw the Yankees face the Mets in the World Series. The Yankees won in five games, solidifying their dominance in New York.
2. **The 2006 NLDS**: The Mets faced the Dodgers in the National League Division Series, and the Yankees watched as the Mets advanced in the playoffs for the first time in 19 years, bringing hope to their fans.
3. **The 2015 Subway Series**: With the Mets strong in their division, the 2015 season saw a dramatic clash between the two teams that reignited the rivalry, leading to heated exchanges both on and off the field.
### Notable Players
– **Yankees Icons**: Babe Ruth, Mickey Mantle, and Derek Jeter have all played pivotal roles in Yankees history and their battles with the Mets.
– **Mets Heroes**: Tom Seaver, Mike Piazza, and David Wright are icons for the Mets and have provided countless memorable moments against their cross-town rivals.
## Cultural Significance
### Fan Base Dynamics
The Yankees and Mets boast dedicated fan bases, each claiming pride in their respective teams. The rivalry transcends the baseball diamond, affecting social interactions and even family dynamics.
– **Yankees Fans**: Often viewed as the elite team, Yankees fans proudly wear their pinstripes, representing a legacy of success and tradition.
– **Mets Fans**: Known for their resilience and loyalty, Mets fans embrace their underdog status, often rallying behind the “We Believe” slogan.
### Impact on New York City
– **Economic Influence**: Games between the Yankees and Mets significantly impact local economies, with increased foot traffic to local businesses, restaurants, and bars during game days.
– **Cultural Events**: The rivalry has inspired various cultural events, from themed merchandise to watch parties in New York pubs, bringing fans together to celebrate their teams.
## Key Statistics and Figures
### Performance Comparison
| Statistic | New York Yankees | New York Mets |
|—————————–|———————–|———————–|
| World Series Titles | 27 | 2 |
| Division Titles | 40+ | 7 |
| All-Star Players (historical)| 100+ | 30+ |
| First Season | 1901 | 1962 |
### Win-Loss Record (as of 2023)
| Year | Yankees Wins | Mets Wins |
|————–|————–|———–|
| 1997 | 3 | 2 |
| 2000 | 4 | 1 |
| 2006 | 5 | 1 |
| 2015 | 4 | 2 |
| Total | 20 | 12 |
## Benefits of Following the Rivalry
### For Fans
– **Community Engagement**: Engaging in the rivalry allows fans to connect with others in their community who share the same passion.
– **Excitement of Game Days**: The thrill of watching the Yankees and Mets battle it out creates a unique atmosphere in the city, making game days an electrifying experience.
### For Players
– **Heightened Performance**: Players often rise to the occasion during rivalry games, leading to memorable performances that can define careers.
– **Legacy Building**: Successful players who shine in these high-stakes games become legends, contributing to both their team’s history and the broader narrative of New York baseball.
## Practical Tips for Enjoying Yankees vs. Mets Games
1. **Attend a Game**: Nothing beats the atmosphere of being in the stands. Whether at Yankee Stadium or Citi Field, the energy is palpable.
2. **Pre-Game Rituals**: Enjoy a pre-game meal at a local eatery famed for its game day vibes. It’s a great way to soak in the rivalry atmosphere.
3. **Engage in Discussions**: Join fan forums or social media groups to discuss games, players, and strategies. Engaging with fellow fans enhances the overall experience.
4. **Wear Team Colors**: Dressed in your team’s gear not only shows pride but also connects you with fellow fans.
5. **Explore Rivalry Merchandise**: From jerseys to caps, wearing or collecting team merchandise can deepen your connection to the rivalry.
## Case Study: The 2000 Subway Series
The 2000 Subway Series is a hallmark of the Yankees vs. Mets rivalry. This World Series highlighted the cultural divide between the teams and their fans.
– **Game 1**: The Yankees took an early lead in the series, showcasing their experience and poise.
– **Game 5**: The Yankees clinched the series with a stunning performance, further establishing their dominance. This showdown contributed to the enduring narrative of the Yankees as New York’s premier baseball team.
## Personal Experience
As a lifelong Mets fan, attending a Yankees vs. Mets game is always a thrilling experience. The palpable tension, the enthusiastic fans, and the chance to see both teams compete at a high level is a celebration of New York City’s rich baseball culture. Whether it’s a last-minute win or a nail-biting finish, the memories created during these games are cherished by fans forever.
## Conclusion
The Yankees vs. Mets rivalry is not just about baseball; it encapsulates the spirit of New York City itself. Through historic moments, passionate fan bases, and cultural significance, this rivalry continues to thrive, ensuring that every game is more than just a match—it’s an event that captures the hearts of millions.
