25 Rivalry Facts: Mets Vs. Dodgers

The Birth of a Rivalry

The Mets and Dodgers rivalry has deep roots in baseball history. It’s a tale of two cities, two teams, and countless unforgettable moments.

1. The Dodgers originally played in Brooklyn before moving to Los Angeles in 1958.
2. The Mets were established in 1962, filling the void left by the Dodgers and Giants' departure from New York.
3. The first game between the Mets and Dodgers took place on April 14, 1962.
4. The Dodgers won the inaugural game against the Mets with a score of 6-2.

Memorable Moments

Every rivalry has its iconic moments that fans remember for years. The Mets and Dodgers have had their fair share.

5. In 1969, the Mets won their first World Series, a year they also beat the Dodgers 10 out of 12 times.
6. The 1988 NLCS saw the Dodgers defeat the Mets in a dramatic seven-game series.
7. Mike Piazza, a former Dodger, became a Mets legend after being traded in 1998.
8. In 2006, the Mets swept the Dodgers in the NLDS, advancing to the NLCS.

Legendary Players

Both teams have had players who left an indelible mark on the rivalry.

9. Sandy Koufax, a Dodgers legend, pitched a perfect game against the Mets in 1965.
10. Tom Seaver, known as "Tom Terrific," was a cornerstone for the Mets in the late 60s and 70s.
11. Darryl Strawberry played for both teams, starting with the Mets and later joining the Dodgers.
12. Clayton Kershaw, a modern-day Dodgers ace, has had numerous battles with the Mets.

Fan Culture

The rivalry extends beyond the field, deeply influencing the fans of both teams.

13. Mets fans often chant "Let's Go Mets!" to drown out Dodgers supporters.
14. Dodgers fans have a tradition of arriving late and leaving early, a stark contrast to the Mets' die-hard supporters.
15. The rivalry games often see a mix of blue and orange in the stands, creating a unique atmosphere.
16. Both teams have dedicated fan bases that travel to away games, intensifying the rivalry.

Stadium Showdowns

The venues where these teams clash add another layer to the rivalry.

17. Ebbets Field was the original home of the Dodgers in Brooklyn.
18. Shea Stadium, the Mets' home from 1964 to 2008, hosted many memorable games against the Dodgers.
19. Citi Field, the current home of the Mets, continues to be a battleground for these two teams.
20. Dodger Stadium, known for its picturesque views, has seen countless Mets vs. Dodgers showdowns.

Statistical Battles

Numbers often tell the story of a rivalry, and this one is no different.

21. The Dodgers have a higher overall win percentage against the Mets.
22. The Mets have had more walk-off wins against the Dodgers than any other team.
23. The longest game between the two lasted 20 innings, ending in a Mets victory.
24. Both teams have had players hit for the cycle in games against each other.

Future of the Rivalry

The rivalry shows no signs of slowing down, with both teams continually striving for greatness.

25. Young stars like Pete Alonso for the Mets and Cody Bellinger for the Dodgers promise to keep the rivalry alive for years to come.

The Final Pitch

The Mets vs. Dodgers rivalry is packed with history, drama, and unforgettable moments. From the intense games to the passionate fanbases, this rivalry has given baseball fans plenty to cheer about. Whether it's the legendary players who’ve graced the field or the nail-biting finishes, each game adds another chapter to this storied competition.

Understanding the key facts about this rivalry not only enhances your appreciation of the sport but also deepens your connection to the teams. So next time the Mets and Dodgers face off, you'll know just how much history is behind every pitch, swing, and catch.

Keep these facts in mind and enjoy the next thrilling installment of this classic baseball rivalry. It’s more than just a game; it’s a tradition that continues to captivate fans year after year.