60 Facts About Mets Vs. Giants

The Rivalry Begins

The Mets and Giants have a storied history that dates back decades. This rivalry has seen many memorable moments, thrilling games, and legendary players. Here are some fascinating facts about the Mets vs. Giants rivalry.

1. The New York Mets were established in 1962, while the San Francisco Giants have been around since 1883, originally as the New York Gothams.
2. The Giants moved from New York to San Francisco in 1958, four years before the Mets were founded.
3. The Mets and Giants first faced off on April 13, 1962, with the Giants winning 11-4.
4. The rivalry is often referred to as the "Battle of the Coasts" due to the teams representing the East and West Coasts.
5. The Giants have won more World Series titles (8) compared to the Mets (2).

Memorable Games

Throughout the years, the Mets and Giants have played some unforgettable games. These matchups have often been nail-biters, with fans on the edge of their seats.

6. On July 8, 1969, the Mets defeated the Giants 9-3 in a game that featured Tom Seaver's near-perfect game.
7. The 2000 NLDS saw the Mets defeat the Giants in four games, advancing to the NLCS.
8. In 2016, the Giants beat the Mets 3-0 in the NL Wild Card Game, with Madison Bumgarner pitching a complete-game shutout.
9. The longest game between the two teams occurred on May 31, 1964, lasting 23 innings with the Giants winning 8-6.
10. On April 17, 1976, the Mets' Dave Kingman hit three home runs against the Giants in a single game.

Legendary Players

Both teams have had their share of legendary players who have left an indelible mark on the rivalry.

11. Willie Mays, one of the greatest baseball players of all time, played for the Giants before finishing his career with the Mets.
12. Tom Seaver, known as "Tom Terrific," was a key figure for the Mets and faced the Giants numerous times.
13. Barry Bonds, the all-time home run leader, played for the Giants and had many memorable moments against the Mets.
14. Mike Piazza, a Hall of Fame catcher, had several clutch hits against the Giants during his time with the Mets.
15. Christy Mathewson, a legendary pitcher for the Giants, dominated the early 1900s and faced the Mets' predecessors, the Brooklyn Dodgers.

Iconic Moments

Certain moments in the Mets vs. Giants rivalry have become iconic, etched in the memories of fans forever.

16. In 1986, the Mets' Ray Knight charged the mound after being hit by a pitch from the Giants' pitcher, leading to a bench-clearing brawl.
17. The Giants' Bobby Thomson hit the "Shot Heard 'Round the World" in 1951, a moment that still resonates with baseball fans.
18. In 2001, the Mets' Mike Piazza hit a game-winning home run against the Giants just days after the September 11 attacks.
19. The Giants' Matt Cain pitched a perfect game against the Houston Astros in 2012, a feat that was celebrated by Giants fans everywhere.
20. The Mets' Johan Santana threw the first no-hitter in franchise history in 2012, a moment that Mets fans will never forget.

Fan Culture

The rivalry between the Mets and Giants extends beyond the field, with passionate fan bases on both sides.

21. Mets fans are known for their loyalty and often refer to themselves as the "Amazin's."
22. Giants fans, known for their dedication, often fill Oracle Park to capacity, creating an electric atmosphere.
23. The rivalry has inspired numerous fan blogs, podcasts, and social media groups dedicated to both teams.
24. Mets fans have a tradition of singing "Meet the Mets" before games, a song that has become synonymous with the team.
25. Giants fans celebrate "Orange Fridays," where they wear orange to support their team during Friday home games.

Statistical Comparisons

When comparing the Mets and Giants, several statistical categories highlight the strengths and weaknesses of each team.

26. The Giants have a higher all-time winning percentage compared to the Mets.
27. The Mets have produced more Rookie of the Year winners, including Tom Seaver and Dwight Gooden.
28. The Giants have had more MVP winners, with players like Willie Mays and Barry Bonds taking home the award.
29. The Mets have a better all-time ERA, thanks to their strong pitching history.
30. The Giants have hit more home runs overall, showcasing their power-hitting prowess.

Historic Venues

The venues where the Mets and Giants have played also hold a special place in the hearts of fans.

31. The Mets' original home, Shea Stadium, was known for its passionate fans and memorable moments.
32. The Giants' Polo Grounds in New York was an iconic ballpark before the team moved to San Francisco.
33. Citi Field, the current home of the Mets, features a unique design that pays homage to New York baseball history.
34. Oracle Park, home of the Giants, is renowned for its stunning views of the San Francisco Bay.
35. Both teams have hosted All-Star Games, with Shea Stadium hosting in 1964 and Oracle Park in 2007.

Records and Achievements

Both teams have set numerous records and achieved significant milestones throughout their histories.

36. The Mets set a record for the most losses in a season with 120 in their inaugural year, 1962.
37. The Giants hold the record for the most wins in a single season with 106 in 1904.
38. The Mets' 1969 "Miracle Mets" team is remembered for their improbable World Series victory.
39. The Giants' 2010, 2012, and 2014 World Series wins solidified their status as a modern dynasty.
40. The Mets' 1986 World Series win is famous for the dramatic Game 6 comeback against the Red Sox.

Hall of Famers

Both teams have produced numerous Hall of Famers who have made significant contributions to the sport.

41. The Mets have inducted players like Tom Seaver, Mike Piazza, and Gary Carter into the Hall of Fame.
42. The Giants boast Hall of Famers such as Willie Mays, Willie McCovey, and Juan Marichal.
43. Both teams have had managers inducted into the Hall of Fame, including Casey Stengel for the Mets and John McGraw for the Giants.
44. The Mets' broadcaster, Ralph Kiner, is also a Hall of Famer, known for his contributions to the game both on and off the field.
45. The Giants' broadcaster, Russ Hodges, is remembered for his iconic call of Bobby Thomson's home run.

Unique Traditions

The Mets and Giants each have unique traditions that set them apart from other teams.

46. The Mets' "7 Line Army" is a dedicated group of fans who travel to away games to support the team.
47. The Giants' "Splash Hits" tradition celebrates home runs that land in McCovey Cove, the body of water just beyond the right-field wall.
48. The Mets hold an annual "Banner Day," where fans create and display homemade banners celebrating the team.
49. The Giants' "Say Hey Kid" statue of Willie Mays is a popular meeting spot for fans at Oracle Park.
50. The Mets' "Mr. Met" mascot is one of the most recognizable and beloved mascots in baseball.

International Influence

The Mets and Giants have both had a significant impact on baseball internationally.

51. The Mets have played games in Japan, Mexico, and Puerto Rico, helping to grow the sport globally.
52. The Giants have a strong following in Latin America, thanks in part to players like Juan Marichal and Orlando Cepeda.
53. The Mets' Yoenis Céspedes, from Cuba, became a fan favorite and brought attention to the team from international audiences.
54. The Giants' Pablo Sandoval, known as "Kung Fu Panda," has a large fan base in his native Venezuela.
55. Both teams have participated in the World Baseball Classic, with players representing various countries.

Future Prospects

Looking ahead, the Mets and Giants continue to build for the future with promising prospects and young talent.

56. The Mets' farm system has produced top prospects like Francisco Álvarez and Brett Baty.
57. The Giants have a strong pipeline of talent, including players like Joey Bart and Marco Luciano.
58. Both teams have invested in advanced analytics and player development to stay competitive in the modern game.
59. The Mets' new ownership under Steve Cohen has brought renewed optimism and investment in the team.
60. The Giants' front office, led by Farhan Zaidi, has been praised for its innovative approach to building a winning team.

Final Whistle

The Mets vs. Giants rivalry is packed with history, drama, and unforgettable moments. From their early days in New York to their current battles on the West Coast, these teams have given fans countless reasons to cheer, groan, and everything in between. Whether it's Willie Mays' legendary catches or the Mets' miracle seasons, the stories are endless. Each game adds another chapter to this storied rivalry, making it one of the most compelling in baseball. So, next time these two teams face off, remember you're not just watching a game; you're witnessing a piece of baseball history. Keep these facts in mind, and you'll appreciate the game even more. Baseball isn't just a sport; it's a legacy. Enjoy the next Mets vs. Giants showdown, and may the best team win!