18 Facts About Mets Vs. Pirates Games

Mets vs. Pirates: A Historic Rivalry

The New York Mets and the Pittsburgh Pirates have a storied history in Major League Baseball. Their matchups have produced memorable moments, legendary players, and intense competition. Here are some fascinating facts about their games.

1. First Meeting: The Mets and Pirates first faced off on April 13, 1962. The Pirates won 4-3, marking the beginning of a long-standing rivalry.

2. Shea Stadium: The Mets played at Shea Stadium from 1964 to 2008. During this period, they hosted the Pirates numerous times, creating many unforgettable moments.

3. Citi Field: Since 2009, the Mets have called Citi Field home. The Pirates have visited this modern ballpark many times, continuing their rivalry.

Legendary Players and Moments

Both teams have had legendary players who left their mark on the Mets vs. Pirates games. These players created moments that fans still talk about today.

4. Willie Stargell: The Pirates' Hall of Famer hit 60 home runs against the Mets during his career, making him a significant threat every time he stepped up to the plate.

5. Tom Seaver: Mets' legendary pitcher Tom Seaver had a 1.67 ERA against the Pirates, showcasing his dominance on the mound.

6. 1973 NLCS: The Mets and Pirates faced off in the 1973 National League Championship Series. The Mets won the series 3-2, advancing to the World Series.

Memorable Games

Certain games between the Mets and Pirates stand out for their excitement and significance. These games are etched in the memories of fans.

7. July 9, 1969: The Mets defeated the Pirates 4-3 in a 15-inning marathon. This game was part of the Mets' incredible run to their first World Series title.

8. June 12, 1970: The Pirates beat the Mets 3-2 in 18 innings, one of the longest games in their rivalry's history.

9. July 30, 2015: The Mets won 8-7 in a thrilling game that featured a walk-off home run by Wilmer Flores, a moment that became iconic for Mets fans.

Statistical Highlights

Statistics often tell the story of a rivalry. The Mets vs. Pirates games have produced some impressive numbers.

10. Head-to-Head Record: As of 2023, the Pirates lead the all-time series against the Mets, with over 700 games played between the two teams.

11. Home Run Leaders: Dave Parker of the Pirates and Darryl Strawberry of the Mets are among the top home run hitters in the history of this matchup.

12. Pitching Duels: Mets' Dwight Gooden and Pirates' John Candelaria had several memorable pitching duels in the 1980s, showcasing their skills.

Fan Experiences

The fans play a crucial role in the atmosphere of Mets vs. Pirates games. Their passion and loyalty add to the excitement.

13. Mets Fans: Known for their "Let's Go Mets!" chant, Mets fans bring energy and enthusiasm to every game, especially against rivals like the Pirates.

14. Pirates Fans: Pirates fans, with their "Let's Go Bucs!" cheer, create a lively atmosphere at PNC Park, making it a challenging place for visiting teams.

15. Road Trips: Fans of both teams often travel to away games, adding to the rivalry's intensity and creating a unique experience for everyone involved.

Unique Facts

Some facts about the Mets vs. Pirates games are unique and lesser-known, adding an extra layer of intrigue to their matchups.

16. First Night Game: The first night game between the Mets and Pirates took place on May 24, 1963, at Forbes Field in Pittsburgh.

17. Record Attendance: The highest attendance for a Mets vs. Pirates game was on July 4, 1985, at Shea Stadium, with over 55,000 fans in attendance.

18. No-Hitters: Both teams have thrown no-hitters against each other. The Mets' Johan Santana no-hit the Pirates on June 1, 2012, while the Pirates' Dock Ellis no-hit the Mets on June 12, 1970.

The Final Pitch

Mets vs. Pirates games have given fans countless memorable moments. From the Mets' 1969 World Series win to the Pirates' legendary 1979 "We Are Family" team, these matchups are steeped in history. Both teams have seen their share of ups and downs, but their rivalry remains a staple of MLB excitement. Whether it's a nail-biting extra-inning game or a blowout victory, each contest adds another chapter to their storied history.

Fans of both teams know that when the Mets and Pirates face off, anything can happen. The unpredictability and passion make these games a must-watch. So next time you catch a Mets vs. Pirates game, remember you're witnessing a piece of baseball history. Enjoy the game, and who knows? You might just see the next unforgettable moment unfold right before your eyes.