One of my favorite things to do is to ask people to recall their favorite Subway Series moment. For Yankees fans, in my experience, it's almost unanimously the 2000 World Series - and how could it not be? But I'm fascinated by the responses from Mets fans. For some it was Mlicki magic, others Dae Sung Koo scoring from second on a sacrifice bunt after doubling off of Randy Johnson. Some say Mike Hampton taking Clemens yard while others mention Roger Cedeno's steal of home...remember that?Before I get to mine, and hopefully yours (I would love for anyone to comment on their favorite subway series moment below) here is why to me, the Subway Series is as good as it gets.
To a Mets fan, it is the epitome of good versus evil. On one side there is the ever expanding dynasty - the franchise that has achieved unparallel success, yet gives off the vibe that they are eternally mired in dissatisfaction. You can't go to a ballpark or city in America without seeing that dark blue cap with the white interlocking "NY" that long ago became iconic and a symbol of power - a statement saying "notice me." The fan base makes sure that you do in fact notice them, almost to the point where (to a Mets fan like me) vibes of insecurity and a constant yearning for attention resonate.
Even so, the Yankees are a brand. But, they're also an enemy - similar to that of the Dallas Cowboys, Notre Dame football and the likes. In a way they fill the essential role that any successful sport or unfolding story needs - the villain. What would college basketball be without Coach K and Duke? The NBA without Kobe? Because of this, they go nowhere without garnering envy, ridicule and abuse.
But they are always noticed.
Then there's the Mets - the team that the Yankees fans seemingly live to antagonize. The Mets are the undisputed underdog in their own city despite their massive and loyal fan base. But in my eyes, as a die-hard Mets fan, the Mets have something that the Yankees don't have, and never will.
Charm.
It's a franchise that has seen the highest of highs, the lowest of lows and a whole lot in between. But the top of the top becomes all the more sweet. Whereas the Yankees conduct themselves like a business seeking a monopoly, the Mets often fluctuate between identities, both good and bad. But there is never a dull moment. And to counter a thought I have noticed from those outside of New York - there is no feeling of inferiority or being second rate. "We could care less how many rings you got" said a good friend of mine. I can only speak for myself at the end of the day, but I would never want to trade in the orange and blue for the pinstripes.
So.....
Then they collide. Good and evil, American and National, Queens and Bronx, and even at times, David and Goliath crash into each other at full speed for three unparallel days.
I began this story saying that I love hearing what other people's favorite Subway Series moment was. So, let me tell you mine.
The day/night two stadium double header in 2008 in which the Mets said "au revoir" and "adios" to the old Stadium will never be matched for me. I went to both games. In the first game, Carlos Delgado hit a grand slam and drove in 9 runs as the Mets pounded the Yankees 15-6. That was the last time I ever stepped foot in the Old Yankee Stadium.
Then there was the night cap at Shea. It went exactly as planned - just for the wrong team. The Yankees again made Pedro their son, and Pedro made the Yankees his daddy. That was the last time I ever stepped foot in Shea.
The magnitude of those games, and the uniqueness of a two stadium doubleheader - and the fact that I saw them in person as my last experience at the two respective stadiums still resonates with me today. Ironically, and perhaps quite fittingly, the road team demolished the home team in each game, leaving sour tastes and bitter feelings criss crossed and confused.
Then there is tonight. This one is destined to be great. The Mets painted the city orange and blue almost a month ago despite fluttering at the time. But now? Now the Mets are rolling almost to the tune of top dog in the NL. The Yankees are tied for the best record in baseball. The real fascinating tidbit, however, is the fact that the same pitching matchups will be taking place on the same exact days once again. Just this time there will be a different backdrop.
It's gonna be fun.
-Tom Greenhalgh (6/18/10)
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Comment below and tell us about your favorite Subway Series moment. And if you're going to the game tonight or any time this weekend, enjoy!
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