The rivalry between the Cincinnati Reds and the New York Mets is a tale of two iconic baseball franchises, each with its unique history and storied past.
Spanning decades, their matchups have been marked by intense competition, passionate fanbases, and unforgettable moments etched into the annals of baseball lore.
From the “Miracle at Shea” to the “Big Red Machine” dominance, these two teams have showcased the essence of Major League Baseball—heart-stopping drama, legendary players, and the unwavering loyalty of their fans.
This introduction sets the stage for a captivating journey through the rich history and thrilling rivalry between the Cincinnati Reds and the New York Mets.
History: Cincinnati Reds Vs New York Mets
The history of the Cincinnati Reds and the New York Mets showcases two storied franchises with unique journeys, successes, and challenges.
Let’s compare their histories across various aspects
Founding and Early Years
Cincinnati Reds: The Reds were established in 1881 as one of the oldest baseball franchises. They were one of the eight charter members of the American Association and became a founding member of the National League in 1890.
The team was originally known as the Cincinnati Red Stockings and underwent several name changes before adopting the current “Cincinnati Reds” name in 1890.New York Mets: The Mets were established in 1962 as an expansion team to replace the departed New York Giants and Brooklyn Dodgers.
They were the first National League expansion team and played their initial seasons at the Polo Grounds.
The Mets struggled in their early years but quickly gained popularity with their “Amazin’ Mets” World Series title in 1969.
World Series Titles
Cincinnati Reds: The Reds have won a total of five World Series championships, capturing titles in 1919, 1940, 1975, 1976, and 1990. The team’s two dominant periods were known as the “Big Red Machine” in the 1970s and the “Wire-to-Wire” champions in 1990.
New York Mets: The Mets have secured two World Series championships, both in dramatic fashion.
They won their first title in 1969, famously known for their improbable victory over the Baltimore Orioles, and their second title came in 1986, remembered for the Bill Buckner error in Game 6 against the Boston Red Sox.
Fanbase: Cincinnati Reds Vs New York Mets
Cincinnati Reds
The Cincinnati Reds have a loyal and dedicated fanbase, particularly in the Ohio region. Baseball holds a special place in Cincinnati’s heart, with a rich baseball history dating back to the 19th century.
The Reds were one of the founding members of the National League and have been a part of the city’s fabric for well over a century.
The Reds’ fanbase is known for its unwavering support and enthusiasm for the team. They are known to fill the Great American Ball Park with a sea of red during home games.
Cincinnati fans are proud of their team’s achievements, especially the five World Series titles won by the Reds.
Cincinnati’s fanbase tends to be more regional, drawing support from the state of Ohio and parts of neighboring states, including Kentucky and Indiana.
The team’s longevity and historical significance have fostered a strong sense of community and tradition among the Reds fans.
New York Mets
The New York Mets’ fanbase is vast and diverse, as it represents the most populous city in the United States.
New York City is a melting pot of cultures and sports enthusiasts, making the Mets’ fanbase a diverse mix of people from various backgrounds and walks of life.
The Mets’ fanbase is known for its passionate, vocal, and sometimes demanding nature. They are dedicated to their team, even during periods of struggle, and have a unique ability to celebrate and embrace the team’s successes.
The Mets’ World Series titles in 1969 and 1986 are cherished moments in the hearts of their fans.
Iconic Moments: Cincinnati Reds Vs New York Mets Rivalry
The rivalry between the Cincinnati Reds and the New York Mets has produced several iconic moments that have left a lasting impact on baseball history.
These moments often involve dramatic plays, intense competition, and high stakes. .
Here are some of the most memorable iconic moments from their rivalry
“Miracle at Shea” – October 8, 1973
During the National League Championship Series (NLCS) between the Reds and the Mets, the fifth and deciding game took place at Shea Stadium. In the top of the ninth inning, the Mets were trailing 3-2 with two outs and two men on base.
Mets outfielder Cleon Jones managed to draw a walk, but home plate umpire Doug Harvey initially ruled that the ball hit Jones’ foot, which would have loaded the bases.
However, Mets manager Yogi Berra argued and convinced the umpires to confer and reverse the call. The Mets capitalized on the second chance, and Wayne Garrett followed with a single, allowing the tying and winning runs to score.
The Mets won the game and advanced to the World Series, a moment that became known as the “Miracle at Shea.”.
Tom Seaver’s Return to Shea Stadium – June 15, 1977
Tom Seaver, one of the most iconic players in Mets history, was traded to the Cincinnati Reds before the 1977 season. On June 15, 1977, Seaver made his first appearance back at Shea Stadium as a member of the Reds.
The crowd gave him a standing ovation, showing their love and respect for the franchise’s former ace. Seaver pitched a complete game, leading the Reds to a 5-1 victory over his former team.
The 22-inning Marathon – July 4, 1985
In a marathon game on July 4, 1985, the Reds and the Mets battled for an astonishing 22 innings. The game lasted for more than seven hours and remains one of the longest games in MLB history.
Mets pitcher Tom Gorman, a relief pitcher, even had to bat in the 17th inning due to lack of available position players. The Reds eventually emerged victorious, winning 5-4, but the game will always be remembered for its epic length and determination from both teams.
Todd Frazier’s Home Run in the 2015 NLDS
In Game 1 of the 2015 National League Division Series (NLDS) between the Mets and the Reds, Todd Frazier, a former Reds player who was then with the Mets, hit a memorable three-run home run to give the Mets the lead.
Frazier’s blast ignited the crowd and set the tone for the Mets’ eventual series victory over the Reds.
Recent Performance: Cincinnati Reds Vs New York Mets
Game 1: Reds 4, Mets 3
Reds secured a thrilling walk-off victory with Nick Castellanos delivering the game-winning single in the bottom of the ninth inning.
Joey Votto’s two-run homer in the eighth inning played a crucial role in tying the game for the Reds.
Luis Castillo showcased his pitching prowess, striking out eight batters and allowing three runs over seven innings.
Edwin Diaz suffered the loss for the Mets after giving up the decisive run in his second inning of work.
Game 2: Mets 6, Reds 2
Mets bounced back with a strong offensive showing, scoring four runs in the first inning, led by Francisco Lindor’s three-run homer.
Marcus Stroman earned his 12th win of the season, allowing only two runs on five hits over six innings.
Tyler Stephenson and Jesse Winker contributed with a solo homer and an RBI single, respectively, but the Reds fell short.
Sonny Gray struggled, lasting only three innings and giving up five runs on seven hits, leading to the Reds’ defeat.
Game 3: Reds 7, Mets 5
Reds clinched a close contest by breaking a tie in the ninth inning, with Eugenio Suarez’s two-run homer being the decisive blow.
Kyle Farmer and Aristides Aquino also made valuable contributions with a two-run homer and an RBI single, respectively.
James McCann’s solo homer in the eighth inning had earlier tied the game for the Mets.
Wade Miley pitched effectively for the Reds, allowing three runs and striking out six over six innings, while Carlos Carrasco made his season debut for the Mets.
Game 4: Mets 8, Reds 5
Mets completed a comeback win by scoring five runs in the eighth inning after trailing 5-3.
Pete Alonso’s game-tying two-run homer and Dominic Smith’s go-ahead RBI single played pivotal roles in the Mets’ rally.
Brandon Nimmo’s two-run triple provided insurance runs for the Mets.
Jonathan India’s grand slam was a highlight for the Reds during a five-run fourth inning, but their lead slipped away in the late stages.
Taijuan Walker pitched five innings for the Mets, allowing five runs, while Tyler Mahle lasted six innings for the Reds, allowing three runs.
Cincinnati Reds Vs New York Mets Rivalry
| Season | Date | Venue | Winner | Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1964 | June 15 | Crosley Field | Mets | 6-2 |
| 1973 | October 8 | Shea Stadium | Mets | 7-6 |
| 1975 | May 3 | Shea Stadium | Reds | 6-1 |
| 1977 | June 15 | Shea Stadium | Reds | 5-1 |
| 1985 | July 4 | Riverfront Stad. | Reds | 5-4 |
| 1999 | July 10 | Riverfront Stad. | Mets | 6-2 |
| 2006 | August 5 | Great American | Reds | 4-0 |
| 2012 | May 17 | Citi Field | Mets | 9-4 |
| 2015 | October 9 | Citi Field | Mets | 2-0 |
| 2019 | September 20 | Great American | Mets | 8-1 |
FAQs
When did the Cincinnati Reds and New York Mets first face off against each other?
The Cincinnati Reds and New York Mets first faced each other on April 11, 1962, during the Mets’ inaugural season as an expansion team. The game took place at the Polo Grounds in New York City, and the Reds won 6-4.
How many World Series titles do the Cincinnati Reds and New York Mets have combined?
The Cincinnati Reds have won a total of five World Series titles (1919, 1940, 1975, 1976, and 1990), while the New York Mets have secured two World Series titles (1969 and 1986). Together, they have a combined seven World Series championships.
Who are some notable players who have played for both the Cincinnati Reds and the New York Mets?
Two Hall of Fame players who have played for both teams are Tom Seaver and Mike Piazza. Tom Seaver, one of the greatest pitchers in baseball history, played for the Mets from 1967 to 1977 and then briefly returned to the Mets in 1983. He also played for the Reds from 1977 to 1982. Mike Piazza, one of the most prolific hitting catchers, played for the Mets from 1998 to 2005 and later played for the Reds in 1998 before being traded to the Mets.
What is the longest game played between the Cincinnati Reds and New York Mets?
The longest game in the history of the rivalry occurred on July 4, 1985. The game lasted for 22 innings and went on for more than seven hours. The Reds emerged victorious, defeating the Mets 5-4 in this marathon match.
How often do the Cincinnati Reds and New York Mets face each other during the regular season?
During the regular season, the Cincinnati Reds and New York Mets typically face each other several times. As members of different divisions in the National League, they play a series of games against each other each season. The number of matchups can vary from year to year due to scheduling changes, but they usually play multiple games against each other during the regular season.
To Recap
The rivalry between the Cincinnati Reds and the New York Mets is a captivating tale of baseball history.
With passionate fanbases, iconic players, and memorable moments, their matchups have enriched the sport.
From the “Miracle at Shea” to the 22-inning marathon, each game has left an indelible mark on the hearts of fans.
With a combined seven World Series titles, both teams have etched their names in baseball lore.
As they continue to compete and write new chapters in their rivalry, the Reds and Mets exemplify the essence of Major League Baseball—a captivating blend of talent, dedication, and unwavering support from their respective fanbases.
