Edwin Diaz ~ Brandon Nimmo ~ Dellin Betances ~ Sean Reid-Foley ~ Pete Alonso
? Albert Almora Jr. ? Scott Hairston ? Marlon Byrd ? Eric Young Jr. ? Kevin Pillar ?
Fred Wilpon at Spring Training ~ the 1974 New York Mets
and so much more!
#LGM
Showing posts with label Tug McGraw. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Tug McGraw. Show all posts
Friday, March 05, 2021
A Metsian Podcast: Grapefruit League Recaps & 1974 Retrospective with FAFIF's Greg Prince
From the desk: HEAD-BUTTING MR. MET
Sunday, February 28, 2021
Grapefruit League Preview, Sky King, and "Ya Gotta Believe" on Another Metsian Podcast
From the desk: HEAD-BUTTING MR. MET
with SAM, RICH & MIKE
Opening Day in the Grapefruit League
Mets Roster Projections
Bullpen - Third Base - Luis Rojas
Pete Alonso > Social Media < Steve Cohen
The 1973 National League Champion New York Mets
and so much more!
ninety-five minutes
#LGM
Thursday, November 19, 2020
A Metsian Podcast Book Review: New York Mets in Pop Culture: Critical Essays Edited by Author David Krell
From the desk: HEAD-BUTTING MR. MET
With SAM, RICH & MIKE
GUEST
Journalist, Producer, Author
BOOK REVIEW:
NEW YORK METS IN POP CULTURE: CRITICAL ESSAYS Edited By DAVID KRELL
one-hundred twelve minutes
Capped off with a classic rant about Citi Field!!
Get your copy of @davidkrell's book, "NY #Mets in Popular Culture," now! #Mets #LGM #LFGM #MetsTwitter https://t.co/kvXSvtb7a2
— Sam Maxwell (@THE_SamMaxwell) November 20, 2020
Sunday, April 12, 2020
Pondering an Uncertain Future on Another Metsian Podcast
From the desk of: HEAD-BUTTING MR. MET
RETIRED NUMBERS DEBATE
A METSIAN PODCAST
with SAM, RICH, and MIKE
SOCIAL DISTRACTION
The 2020 Season ~ What 2020 Season
Sid Fernandez ~ Rafael Montero ~ Duaner Sanchez ~ Tug McGraw
Jeff McNeil ~ Tommie Agee ~ Rusty Staub ~ Benny Agbayani
Keith Hernandez ~ Gary Carter ~ David Wright
The 2019 Season ~ The North American Championship
Jackie Robinson and so much more.
Saturday, October 05, 2019
Amazin' Date 10/5/1969: Slugging Mets Take 2-0 Series Lead Over Atlanta Braves
From the desk of: HEAD-BUTTING MR. MET
New York scores early, often, and late, en route to an 11-6 victory, and two game lead against the Atlanta Braves in this best of five National League championship series.
The Mets knock Braves starter Ron Reed out of the box with haste. Ed Kranepool's clutch two-out hit with the bases loaded in the first plates Tommie Agee for the game's first run. In the second Reed issues a base on balls to counter-part Jerry Koosman. It brings up Tommie Agee whom makes Reed pay dearly with a home run hit deep into the seats in left. Cleon Jones keeps the line going with a double to left, and Art Shamsky strokes a single to right scoring Jones. Manager Lum Harris can stand no more and yields to his bullpen before the second inning is through.
The Mets continue pressing for three more runs against relievers Paul Doyle and Milt Pappas. First baseman Orlando Cepeda finally gets Atlanta on the board in the fourth. But Cleon Jones' second hit of the game in the top of the fifth stakes the Mets to a 9-1 lead. Hank Aaron's three run home run and Clete Boyer's two run single in the bottom half of the frame cut the Braves deficit to three. That is, until Cleon Jones puts the game out of reach in the seventh with a two run home run off reliever Cecil Upshaw. Jerry Koosman takes his lumps, allowing six earned runs on seven hits and four walks with five strikeouts before yielding to Ron Taylor with two outs in the fifth. Taylor pitches through the sixth. After which Tug McGraw closes out the game with three scoreless innings for the save.
Cleon Jones goes 3 for 5 with a double, home run, and three runs batted in. Ken Boswell homers and drives in a pair. Bud Harrelson drives in his third run of the series. Art Shamsky goes 3 for 5 with a run batted in, and Tommie Agee goes 2 for 4 with a home run and two runs batted in. The Mets generate 21 hits and 22 runs through two games at Atlanta.
The series now shifts to Shea Stadium for game three on Monday.
AMAZIN'
THE MIRACLE METS
50th ANNIVERSARY
NATIONAL LEAGUE CHAMPIONSHIP SERIES
GAME TWO
Mets 11
Braves 6
FINAL
New York scores early, often, and late, en route to an 11-6 victory, and two game lead against the Atlanta Braves in this best of five National League championship series.
The Mets knock Braves starter Ron Reed out of the box with haste. Ed Kranepool's clutch two-out hit with the bases loaded in the first plates Tommie Agee for the game's first run. In the second Reed issues a base on balls to counter-part Jerry Koosman. It brings up Tommie Agee whom makes Reed pay dearly with a home run hit deep into the seats in left. Cleon Jones keeps the line going with a double to left, and Art Shamsky strokes a single to right scoring Jones. Manager Lum Harris can stand no more and yields to his bullpen before the second inning is through.
The Mets continue pressing for three more runs against relievers Paul Doyle and Milt Pappas. First baseman Orlando Cepeda finally gets Atlanta on the board in the fourth. But Cleon Jones' second hit of the game in the top of the fifth stakes the Mets to a 9-1 lead. Hank Aaron's three run home run and Clete Boyer's two run single in the bottom half of the frame cut the Braves deficit to three. That is, until Cleon Jones puts the game out of reach in the seventh with a two run home run off reliever Cecil Upshaw. Jerry Koosman takes his lumps, allowing six earned runs on seven hits and four walks with five strikeouts before yielding to Ron Taylor with two outs in the fifth. Taylor pitches through the sixth. After which Tug McGraw closes out the game with three scoreless innings for the save.
Cleon Jones goes 3 for 5 with a double, home run, and three runs batted in. Ken Boswell homers and drives in a pair. Bud Harrelson drives in his third run of the series. Art Shamsky goes 3 for 5 with a run batted in, and Tommie Agee goes 2 for 4 with a home run and two runs batted in. The Mets generate 21 hits and 22 runs through two games at Atlanta.
The series now shifts to Shea Stadium for game three on Monday.
Thursday, September 26, 2019
N.Y. Mets: The Great Jerry Koosman To Receive Long Overdue Tribute
From the desk of: HEAD-BUTTING MR. MET
With Tuesday's announcement begins the long overdue recognition and commemoration of one of the greatest and most beloved pitchers to ever don Flushing's orange and blue. The New York Mets will be retiring Jerry Koosman's #36 in a ceremony planned for next season.
Where it concerns my preteen years and baseball heroes, Jerry Koosman, Rusty Staub, and Tug McGraw are my Mets Rushmore of Three. It's rather impossible for me to differentiate one from the other, and I refuse to include a fourth.
But, Mike, what about Tom Seaver?
What about him ... he was a god to me ... I worshiped him. He and Koosman formed one of the game's most formidable one-two punches of their era. But The Franchise inspired in me a somewhat different emotion than did the aforementioned three. With Seaver it was more a matter of respect, watching with great amazement and admiration as he went about his craft, and understanding that I was witnessing greatness. He was elite, and therefore I made an unconscious differentiation. Like most, if not all fans, I was greatly angered when the Mets traded him. But I didn't love him the way a kid loves his dog. When the Mets traded Staub and McGraw I felt nothing but sadness and pain. They traded away two of my three best friends. By the time it came for setting Koosman free the Mets were a badly deteriorated club. Therefore I was relieved and happy for Koosman, but at the same time saddened again to see him go.
That being said I just can't bring myself to place a fourth Met on my Rushmore for fear of leaving someone out. And so Seaver leads my best of the rest list. He along with John Milner, John Stearns, and Keith Hernandez, David Wright, and, you get the picture ...
With great certainty I say the methodical deconstruction of the 1969/1973 Mets initiated in the mid-1970's effectively cost Jerry Koosman a golden opportunity for bettering his Hall of Fame credentials as he was one of the last of the Amazin's to be let go. In 1976 Koosman posts a 21-10 record with 2.69 ERA. Seaver gets traded the following summer and Koosman is left behind to lose 35 games over the next two seasons pitching for a last place club. In 1979, his first season with the Minnesota Twins, 36-year old Jerry Koosman posts a 20-13 record with an American League grade 3.38 ERA.
He wins 147 games in a Mets uniform, but none bigger than game five of the 1969 World Series against the Orioles at Shea Stadium. However, his 1976 campaign is one of my grandest memories as a young Mets fan. He never won the Rookie of the Year or a Cy Young award, but forever earned a place in my heart.
Today, I'm very, very happy for Jerry Koosman, a great, great New York Met.
JERRY KOOSMAN
#36
With Tuesday's announcement begins the long overdue recognition and commemoration of one of the greatest and most beloved pitchers to ever don Flushing's orange and blue. The New York Mets will be retiring Jerry Koosman's #36 in a ceremony planned for next season.
Where it concerns my preteen years and baseball heroes, Jerry Koosman, Rusty Staub, and Tug McGraw are my Mets Rushmore of Three. It's rather impossible for me to differentiate one from the other, and I refuse to include a fourth.
But, Mike, what about Tom Seaver?
What about him ... he was a god to me ... I worshiped him. He and Koosman formed one of the game's most formidable one-two punches of their era. But The Franchise inspired in me a somewhat different emotion than did the aforementioned three. With Seaver it was more a matter of respect, watching with great amazement and admiration as he went about his craft, and understanding that I was witnessing greatness. He was elite, and therefore I made an unconscious differentiation. Like most, if not all fans, I was greatly angered when the Mets traded him. But I didn't love him the way a kid loves his dog. When the Mets traded Staub and McGraw I felt nothing but sadness and pain. They traded away two of my three best friends. By the time it came for setting Koosman free the Mets were a badly deteriorated club. Therefore I was relieved and happy for Koosman, but at the same time saddened again to see him go.
That being said I just can't bring myself to place a fourth Met on my Rushmore for fear of leaving someone out. And so Seaver leads my best of the rest list. He along with John Milner, John Stearns, and Keith Hernandez, David Wright, and, you get the picture ...
With great certainty I say the methodical deconstruction of the 1969/1973 Mets initiated in the mid-1970's effectively cost Jerry Koosman a golden opportunity for bettering his Hall of Fame credentials as he was one of the last of the Amazin's to be let go. In 1976 Koosman posts a 21-10 record with 2.69 ERA. Seaver gets traded the following summer and Koosman is left behind to lose 35 games over the next two seasons pitching for a last place club. In 1979, his first season with the Minnesota Twins, 36-year old Jerry Koosman posts a 20-13 record with an American League grade 3.38 ERA.
He wins 147 games in a Mets uniform, but none bigger than game five of the 1969 World Series against the Orioles at Shea Stadium. However, his 1976 campaign is one of my grandest memories as a young Mets fan. He never won the Rookie of the Year or a Cy Young award, but forever earned a place in my heart.
Today, I'm very, very happy for Jerry Koosman, a great, great New York Met.
Monday, September 23, 2019
Amazin' Date 9/23/1969: Mets Clinch Tie for N.L. East Division Title
From the desk of: HEAD-BUTTING MR. MET
Game #156: Tuesday, September 23, 1969 - BR
St. Louis Cardinals @ New York Mets
Shea Stadium
With Tuesday's victory over St. Louis, the New York Mets increase their division lead to six games over the Cubs with six games left in the season, assuring themselves of at least a tie for the N.L. East pennant. Meanwhile fading Chicago loses to the Expos at Wrigley Field. It's their 15th loss in their last 21 games.
Jim McAndrew and Tug McGraw duel Bob Gibson for eleven innings. The Mets open the scoring in the third on Wayne Garrett's run batted in. Ken Boswell's error in the fourth contributes to a pair of unearned St. Louis runs in the fifth. But the Mets tie the game at two on Art Shamsky's base hit scoring Tommie Agee in the eighth.
Into extra innings they go. Bob Gibson stays in the game to pitch a scoreless tenth. Tug McGraw retires the Cardinals in order in the top of the eleventh inning. With one out in the bottom half of the frame, Ron Swoboda and Jerry Grote each reach on consecutive singles. Buddy Harrelson then slaps a third straight single against Gibson scoring Swoboda from second base.
Jim McAndrew allows no earned runs on nine hits and no walks with three strikeouts. Tug Mcgraw earns his ninth victory of the season in relief of McAndrew, allowing just three hits through four scoreless innings.
It's the Mets fourth straight victory and their 19th of September against just seven losses.
AMAZIN'
THE MIRACLE METS
50th ANNIVERSARY
Game #156: Tuesday, September 23, 1969 - BR
St. Louis Cardinals @ New York Mets
Shea Stadium
METS CLINCH A TIE FOR NATIONAL LEAGUE EAST TITLE
Bud Harrelson Drives Home Game Winning Run Off Bob Gibson in 11th Inning at Shea
With Tuesday's victory over St. Louis, the New York Mets increase their division lead to six games over the Cubs with six games left in the season, assuring themselves of at least a tie for the N.L. East pennant. Meanwhile fading Chicago loses to the Expos at Wrigley Field. It's their 15th loss in their last 21 games.
Jim McAndrew and Tug McGraw duel Bob Gibson for eleven innings. The Mets open the scoring in the third on Wayne Garrett's run batted in. Ken Boswell's error in the fourth contributes to a pair of unearned St. Louis runs in the fifth. But the Mets tie the game at two on Art Shamsky's base hit scoring Tommie Agee in the eighth.
Into extra innings they go. Bob Gibson stays in the game to pitch a scoreless tenth. Tug McGraw retires the Cardinals in order in the top of the eleventh inning. With one out in the bottom half of the frame, Ron Swoboda and Jerry Grote each reach on consecutive singles. Buddy Harrelson then slaps a third straight single against Gibson scoring Swoboda from second base.
Jim McAndrew allows no earned runs on nine hits and no walks with three strikeouts. Tug Mcgraw earns his ninth victory of the season in relief of McAndrew, allowing just three hits through four scoreless innings.
It's the Mets fourth straight victory and their 19th of September against just seven losses.
- Mets Record: 95-61 (.609)
- N.L. East: Clinch Tie for First Place
- Magic Number: ONE
Friday, September 20, 2019
Amazin' Date 9/20/1969: Pittsburgh's Bob Moose Tosses No-Hitter at Shea Stadium
From the desk of: HEAD-BUTTING MR. MET
Game #152: Saturday, September 20, 1969 - BR
Pittsburgh Pirates @ New York Mets
Shea Stadium
Pittsburgh hands New York their third straight loss at Shea Stadium. Yet the Chicago Cubs seem disinterested in taking advantage as they fall to the Cardinals at Wrigley. It marks the Cubs 14th loss over their last 18 games. Despite Pittsburgh Pirates starter Bob Moose's stellar near perfect no-hitter Saturday afternoon at Shea the Mets lose no ground in the standings and one step closer to clinching the division flag.
Mets starter Gary Gentry yields three earned runs on four hits and three walks with two strikeouts through six innings. However, he suffers a meltdown in the fourth, yielding a hit and two walks, hitting a batter, and unleashing two run scoring wild pitches. Gentry sees his record fall to 11-12 for the season with a 3.67 ERA. Tug McGraw also gives up a run on two hits and one walk with three strikeouts through three innings pitched. He too unleashes a wild pitch in the top of the ninth permitting Bob Moose to score Pittsburgh's fourth run of the game.
Bob Moose, Pittsburgh's young 27-year old right-hander, improves to 12-3 with a 2.99 ERA. He faces three batters over the minimum while allowing no runs, no hits, and just three walks with six strikeouts. The Pirates commit no errors.
AMAZIN'
THE MIRACLE METS
50th ANNIVERSARY
Game #152: Saturday, September 20, 1969 - BR
Pittsburgh Pirates @ New York Mets
Shea Stadium
Pittsburgh hands New York their third straight loss at Shea Stadium. Yet the Chicago Cubs seem disinterested in taking advantage as they fall to the Cardinals at Wrigley. It marks the Cubs 14th loss over their last 18 games. Despite Pittsburgh Pirates starter Bob Moose's stellar near perfect no-hitter Saturday afternoon at Shea the Mets lose no ground in the standings and one step closer to clinching the division flag.
Mets starter Gary Gentry yields three earned runs on four hits and three walks with two strikeouts through six innings. However, he suffers a meltdown in the fourth, yielding a hit and two walks, hitting a batter, and unleashing two run scoring wild pitches. Gentry sees his record fall to 11-12 for the season with a 3.67 ERA. Tug McGraw also gives up a run on two hits and one walk with three strikeouts through three innings pitched. He too unleashes a wild pitch in the top of the ninth permitting Bob Moose to score Pittsburgh's fourth run of the game.
Bob Moose, Pittsburgh's young 27-year old right-hander, improves to 12-3 with a 2.99 ERA. He faces three batters over the minimum while allowing no runs, no hits, and just three walks with six strikeouts. The Pirates commit no errors.
- Mets Record: 91-61
- N.L. East: 1st Place; 4 Games Up
Sunday, September 15, 2019
Amazin' Date 9/15/1969: Ron Swoboda Two Home Runs Power Mets Over Cardinals
From the desk of: HEAD-BUTTING MR. MET
Game #147: Monday, September 15, 1969 - BR
New York Mets @ St. Louis Cardinals
Busch Stadium
In St. Louis for one game only, Gary Gentry and Tug Mcgraw join to outlast Cardinals left-hander Steve Carlton.
Vida Pinson drives in the first run of the game in the third. But Ron Swoboda answers with a two run home run in the fourth. However runs batted in from Curt Flood and Joe Torre give the Cardinals a 3-2 edge after five. Gentry's duel with Carlton ends after six. He exits on the losing side after surrendering three earned runs on seven hits and one walk with three strikeouts. Tug McGraw enters the game in relief of Gentry. With Donn Clendenon on base in the top of the eighth Ron Swoboda connects on his second home run of the game off Steve Carlton giving the Mets a 4-3 final margin of victory. Tug McGraw allows one hit over three scoreless innings with three strikeouts to pick up his eighth victory of the season against three losses with a 2.36 ERA.
The Expos roll over the Cubs at Jarry Park, and so the Mets gain another game in the standings. Chicago has now lost 11 of their last 12 games.
AMAZIN'
THE MIRACLE METS
50th ANNIVERSARY
Game #147: Monday, September 15, 1969 - BR
New York Mets @ St. Louis Cardinals
Busch Stadium
METS EXTEND LEAD OVER CUBS: JUST 15 GAMES REMAIN IN SEASON
In St. Louis for one game only, Gary Gentry and Tug Mcgraw join to outlast Cardinals left-hander Steve Carlton.
Vida Pinson drives in the first run of the game in the third. But Ron Swoboda answers with a two run home run in the fourth. However runs batted in from Curt Flood and Joe Torre give the Cardinals a 3-2 edge after five. Gentry's duel with Carlton ends after six. He exits on the losing side after surrendering three earned runs on seven hits and one walk with three strikeouts. Tug McGraw enters the game in relief of Gentry. With Donn Clendenon on base in the top of the eighth Ron Swoboda connects on his second home run of the game off Steve Carlton giving the Mets a 4-3 final margin of victory. Tug McGraw allows one hit over three scoreless innings with three strikeouts to pick up his eighth victory of the season against three losses with a 2.36 ERA.
The Expos roll over the Cubs at Jarry Park, and so the Mets gain another game in the standings. Chicago has now lost 11 of their last 12 games.
- Mets Record: 89-58
- N.L. East: 1st Place; 4.5 Games Up
Thursday, September 12, 2019
Amazin' Date 9/12/1969: Mets Open Road Trip With Twin Bill Sweep at Forbes Field
From the desk of: HEAD-BUTTING MR. MET
New York Mets @ Pittsburgh Pirates
Double-Header
Forbes Field
The first place Mets are on the road. They open at Pittsburgh where on Friday they play a twi-night double-header against the third place Pirates as part of a make-up of a July postponement.
KOOSMAN HURLS THREE-HIT SHUTOUT
The great Roberto Clemente is 2 for 4 against Mets starter Jerry Koosman, while Matty Alou manages one hit in four at-bats. And therein lay the extent of Pittsburgh's offense. Koosman yields no runs on said three hits and three walks with four strikeouts over nine complete innings pitched for his 14 victory of the season. He further lowers his ERA to a stellar 2.36 mark. Pittsburgh's Bob Moose pitches no less effectively, allowing one earned run on five hits and three walks with ten strikeouts though eight innings. In the top of the fifth with one out and two runners in scoring position, Jerry Koosman singles home the lone run of the game, then goes on to complete his game one shutout of the slugging Pirates.
DON CARDWELL AND TUG McGRAW JOIN TO PITCH SECOND STRAIGHT SHUTOUT OVER PIRATES.
Just as Jerry Koosman does in game one, Don Cardwell drives home the lone run of the game with a third inning single against Pirates starter Doc Ellis. Bud Harrelson scores on the play. Otherwise Ellis limits the Mets to the one run on six hits and three walks with eleven strikeouts through eight innings pitched. Don Cardwell does better yielding no runs on just four hits and one walk with three strikeouts through eight innings pitched. Tug McGraw pitches a scoreless ninth completing the shutout.
In fact it's the Mets third straight shutout victory. Moreover they've won nine in a row. New York is now an astonishing 30 games above the .500 mark with only 18 games remaining in the regular season.
AMAZIN'
THE MIRACLE METS
50th ANNIVERSARY
New York Mets @ Pittsburgh Pirates
Double-Header
Forbes Field
The first place Mets are on the road. They open at Pittsburgh where on Friday they play a twi-night double-header against the third place Pirates as part of a make-up of a July postponement.
KOOSMAN HURLS THREE-HIT SHUTOUT
The great Roberto Clemente is 2 for 4 against Mets starter Jerry Koosman, while Matty Alou manages one hit in four at-bats. And therein lay the extent of Pittsburgh's offense. Koosman yields no runs on said three hits and three walks with four strikeouts over nine complete innings pitched for his 14 victory of the season. He further lowers his ERA to a stellar 2.36 mark. Pittsburgh's Bob Moose pitches no less effectively, allowing one earned run on five hits and three walks with ten strikeouts though eight innings. In the top of the fifth with one out and two runners in scoring position, Jerry Koosman singles home the lone run of the game, then goes on to complete his game one shutout of the slugging Pirates.
DON CARDWELL AND TUG McGRAW JOIN TO PITCH SECOND STRAIGHT SHUTOUT OVER PIRATES.
Just as Jerry Koosman does in game one, Don Cardwell drives home the lone run of the game with a third inning single against Pirates starter Doc Ellis. Bud Harrelson scores on the play. Otherwise Ellis limits the Mets to the one run on six hits and three walks with eleven strikeouts through eight innings pitched. Don Cardwell does better yielding no runs on just four hits and one walk with three strikeouts through eight innings pitched. Tug McGraw pitches a scoreless ninth completing the shutout.
In fact it's the Mets third straight shutout victory. Moreover they've won nine in a row. New York is now an astonishing 30 games above the .500 mark with only 18 games remaining in the regular season.
- Mets Record: 87-57
- N.L. East: 1st Place; Up 2.5
Friday, September 06, 2019
Amazin' Date 9/6/1969: Mets Shut Out Phillies at Shea Stadium
From the desk of: HEAD-BUTTING MR. MET
Game #136: Saturday, September 6, 1969 - BR
Philadelphia Phillies @ New York Mets
Shea Stadium
Pittsburgh puts another hurting on the Cubs at Wrigley Field, and with Saturday's 3-0 whitewashing of the Phillies, the New York Mets close to within 3.5 games of first place. After Sunday's series finale against Philadelphia, the Mets host the National League East leading Chicago Cubs for the much anticipated showdown at Shea Stadium.
Making his 19th start of the season Don Cardwell limits the Phillies to just four hits and three walks with three strikeouts over six innings to earn his sixth victory of the season. In relief of Cardwell, southpaw Tug McGraw yields two hits and fans three over the final three innings to complete the shutout and earn his eleventh save of the season. Jerry Grote's home run and Wayne Garrett's run scoring sac-fly gives the Mets a 2-0 lead after two. McGraw singles home in an insurance run in the seventh for a 3-0 Mets lead and final margin of victory.
AMAZIN'
THE MIRACLE METS
50th ANNIVERSARY
Game #136: Saturday, September 6, 1969 - BR
Philadelphia Phillies @ New York Mets
Shea Stadium
Pittsburgh puts another hurting on the Cubs at Wrigley Field, and with Saturday's 3-0 whitewashing of the Phillies, the New York Mets close to within 3.5 games of first place. After Sunday's series finale against Philadelphia, the Mets host the National League East leading Chicago Cubs for the much anticipated showdown at Shea Stadium.
Making his 19th start of the season Don Cardwell limits the Phillies to just four hits and three walks with three strikeouts over six innings to earn his sixth victory of the season. In relief of Cardwell, southpaw Tug McGraw yields two hits and fans three over the final three innings to complete the shutout and earn his eleventh save of the season. Jerry Grote's home run and Wayne Garrett's run scoring sac-fly gives the Mets a 2-0 lead after two. McGraw singles home in an insurance run in the seventh for a 3-0 Mets lead and final margin of victory.
- Mets Record:79-57
- N.L. East: 2nd; 3.5 GB
Monday, September 02, 2019
Amazin' Date 9/2/1969: Donn Clendenon Powers Mets to Victory Over Dodgers
From the desk of: HEAD-BUTTING MR. MET
Game #132: Tuesday, September 2, 1969 - BR
New York Mets @ Los Angeles Dodgers
Dodger Stadium
New York bounces back with a 5-4 victory in game two at Los Angeles to even their series with the Dodgers at one. Gary Gentry pitches a strong game until tiring in the ninth. He allows three late runs on eight hits and three walks with four strikeouts through 8.1 innings pitched. Ron Taylor relieves Gentry with great difficulty until Gil Hodges summons Tug McGraw whom settles things down to earn his tenth save of the season. Gentry earns his tenth win. The Mets muster four earned runs on six hits and three walks against Dodgers starter Don Sutton. Donn Clendenon is 3 for 4 with a home run off Sutton in the first, and another off Sutton in the fourth. Ron Swoboda is 1 for 3 with a double and two runs batted in.
But the true difference maker is Ken Boswell's RBI single in the top of the eighth off reliever Joe Moeller. Since returning to the line-up on Aug. 23 Boswell has hit safely in eight of nine games during which time he is batting .542 (13 for 24) to date.
Wednesday's rubber game at Dodger stadium concludes New York's ten game road trip. Tuesday's win was their sixth of the trip against three loses. However, Chicago defeats the Reds at Crosley Field and so the Mets gain no ground on the first place Cubs. Upon their return home, the Mets first will host a four game series against the Phillies, then finally go head to head against the Leo Durocher's Chicago Cubs at Shea Stadium.
AMAZIN'
THE MIRACLE METS
50th ANNIVERSARY
Game #132: Tuesday, September 2, 1969 - BR
New York Mets @ Los Angeles Dodgers
Dodger Stadium
New York bounces back with a 5-4 victory in game two at Los Angeles to even their series with the Dodgers at one. Gary Gentry pitches a strong game until tiring in the ninth. He allows three late runs on eight hits and three walks with four strikeouts through 8.1 innings pitched. Ron Taylor relieves Gentry with great difficulty until Gil Hodges summons Tug McGraw whom settles things down to earn his tenth save of the season. Gentry earns his tenth win. The Mets muster four earned runs on six hits and three walks against Dodgers starter Don Sutton. Donn Clendenon is 3 for 4 with a home run off Sutton in the first, and another off Sutton in the fourth. Ron Swoboda is 1 for 3 with a double and two runs batted in.
But the true difference maker is Ken Boswell's RBI single in the top of the eighth off reliever Joe Moeller. Since returning to the line-up on Aug. 23 Boswell has hit safely in eight of nine games during which time he is batting .542 (13 for 24) to date.
Wednesday's rubber game at Dodger stadium concludes New York's ten game road trip. Tuesday's win was their sixth of the trip against three loses. However, Chicago defeats the Reds at Crosley Field and so the Mets gain no ground on the first place Cubs. Upon their return home, the Mets first will host a four game series against the Phillies, then finally go head to head against the Leo Durocher's Chicago Cubs at Shea Stadium.
- Mets Record: 77-55
- N.L. East: 2nd; 5 GB
Saturday, August 31, 2019
Amazin' Date 8/31/1969: Tom Seaver Defeats Giants for 19th Victory of Season
From the desk of: HEAD-BUTTING MR. MET
New York Mets @ San Francisco Giants
Candlestick Park
With a five run outburst in the fourth and three more runs in the fifth New York rolls to an 8-0 whitewashing of the Giants. Ron Swoboda, Jerry Grote, and Al Weis, each drive in a pair of runs apiece. Bud Harrelson is 2 for 5 with an RBI, and starter Tom Seaver helps his own cause with a hit and an RBI; his fourth of the season. On the mound Tom Seaver allows just seven hits and three walks with eleven strikeouts for the complete game shutout. He improves to 19-8 with a 2.54 ERA. It's the fourth time this season Seaver fans double-digits, and now gives him 175 for the season.
The Giants salvage game two and gain a four game split as the Mets lose a heart-breaker in extra innings at Candlestick Park. San Francisco scores straightaway against starter Jim McAndrew on Don Mason's lead-off hit, Ken Henderson's one-out triple to right, and Jim Ray Hart's RBI hit for a 2-0 first inning lead. The Mets eventually strike back in the seventh when Ron Swoboda connects on his sixth home run of the season with Cleon Jones aboard. The game remains deadlocked at two after nine, and into extra innings they go. Pitching into the bottom of the eleventh, Tug McGraw issues a lead-off walk, and a hit by Willie McCovey. Manager Hodges opts for Ron Taylor whom intentionally walks Bobby Bonds loading the bases. However with Jim Davenport at the plate Taylor issues a second straight walk forcing in the game winning run in from third. Jim McAndrew puts forth a fine performance allowing two earned runs on six hits and two walks with seven strikeouts through nine innings full. But it's Tug McGraw whom incurs his third loss of the season.
The Mets lose a half-game in the standings, as Ken Holtzman and the Cubs again defeat Phil Niekro and the Braves at Atlanta. However the Mets close out the month of August with a stellar 21-10 record and enter September winners of 13 of their last 16 games. The Cubs close out August with an 18-10 record.
AMAZIN'
THE MIRACLE METS
50th ANNIVERSARY
Games #129 and #13050th ANNIVERSARY
New York Mets @ San Francisco Giants
Candlestick Park
Giants Salvage Series Split at Candlestick Park
With a five run outburst in the fourth and three more runs in the fifth New York rolls to an 8-0 whitewashing of the Giants. Ron Swoboda, Jerry Grote, and Al Weis, each drive in a pair of runs apiece. Bud Harrelson is 2 for 5 with an RBI, and starter Tom Seaver helps his own cause with a hit and an RBI; his fourth of the season. On the mound Tom Seaver allows just seven hits and three walks with eleven strikeouts for the complete game shutout. He improves to 19-8 with a 2.54 ERA. It's the fourth time this season Seaver fans double-digits, and now gives him 175 for the season.
The Giants salvage game two and gain a four game split as the Mets lose a heart-breaker in extra innings at Candlestick Park. San Francisco scores straightaway against starter Jim McAndrew on Don Mason's lead-off hit, Ken Henderson's one-out triple to right, and Jim Ray Hart's RBI hit for a 2-0 first inning lead. The Mets eventually strike back in the seventh when Ron Swoboda connects on his sixth home run of the season with Cleon Jones aboard. The game remains deadlocked at two after nine, and into extra innings they go. Pitching into the bottom of the eleventh, Tug McGraw issues a lead-off walk, and a hit by Willie McCovey. Manager Hodges opts for Ron Taylor whom intentionally walks Bobby Bonds loading the bases. However with Jim Davenport at the plate Taylor issues a second straight walk forcing in the game winning run in from third. Jim McAndrew puts forth a fine performance allowing two earned runs on six hits and two walks with seven strikeouts through nine innings full. But it's Tug McGraw whom incurs his third loss of the season.
The Mets lose a half-game in the standings, as Ken Holtzman and the Cubs again defeat Phil Niekro and the Braves at Atlanta. However the Mets close out the month of August with a stellar 21-10 record and enter September winners of 13 of their last 16 games. The Cubs close out August with an 18-10 record.
- Mets Record: 76-54
- N.L. East: 2nd; 4.5 GB
Friday, August 30, 2019
Amazin' Date 8/30/1969: Mets Defeat Gaylord Perry in Ten Innings
From the desk of: HEAD-BUTTING MR. MET
Game #128: Saturday, August 30, 1969 - BR
New York Mets @ San Francisco Giants
Candlestick Park
The triumvirate of Don Cardwell, Ron Taylor, and Tug McGraw best Giants starter Gaylord Perry at Candlestick.
The Mets put up the first run of the day on Bud Harrelson's RBI hit in the second. In the third, however, Cardwell yields a lead off base hit to his counterpart then walks three straight forcing in a run. New York retakes the lead on Jerry Grote's hit to right scoring Ken Boswell from second in the sixth. But the Giants answer with haste in the seventh on Willie McCovey's double scoring former Mets all-star Ron Hunt. The game remains tied at two through nine, and into extra-innings they go. The Mets waste little time as Donn Clendenon with two outs in the tenth homers off Perry. Tug McGraw then retires the Giants in order.
Don Cardwell surrenders just two earned runs on five hits, but walks seven batters and fans two. He does not figure in the decision. Ron Taylor finishes up the eighth inning in relief of Cardwell. Tug McGraw earns his seventh victory of the season with two scoreless innings in relief of Taylor. Gaylord Perry pitches all ten innings, yielding three runs, two earned, on nine hits and no walks with nine strikeouts en route to his 11th loss of the season against 16 wins and a 2.63 ERA.
Clendenon hits his fifth home run since joining the Mets. Ken Boswell is 3 for 4 with a double and run scored. He is 9 for 20 (.450) since his return to action on Aug. 23 and in the midst of a six game hitting streak.
With their 75th victory of the season, the Mets even the series at one with a double-header on tap for Sunday. However they fail to gain ground on Chicago whom defeat the Braves at Atlanta. Willie Mays who has only played 12 games this month has yet to make an appearance this series.
AMAZIN'
THE MIRACLE METS
50th ANNIVERSARY
Game #128: Saturday, August 30, 1969 - BR
New York Mets @ San Francisco Giants
Candlestick Park
The triumvirate of Don Cardwell, Ron Taylor, and Tug McGraw best Giants starter Gaylord Perry at Candlestick.
The Mets put up the first run of the day on Bud Harrelson's RBI hit in the second. In the third, however, Cardwell yields a lead off base hit to his counterpart then walks three straight forcing in a run. New York retakes the lead on Jerry Grote's hit to right scoring Ken Boswell from second in the sixth. But the Giants answer with haste in the seventh on Willie McCovey's double scoring former Mets all-star Ron Hunt. The game remains tied at two through nine, and into extra-innings they go. The Mets waste little time as Donn Clendenon with two outs in the tenth homers off Perry. Tug McGraw then retires the Giants in order.
Don Cardwell surrenders just two earned runs on five hits, but walks seven batters and fans two. He does not figure in the decision. Ron Taylor finishes up the eighth inning in relief of Cardwell. Tug McGraw earns his seventh victory of the season with two scoreless innings in relief of Taylor. Gaylord Perry pitches all ten innings, yielding three runs, two earned, on nine hits and no walks with nine strikeouts en route to his 11th loss of the season against 16 wins and a 2.63 ERA.
Clendenon hits his fifth home run since joining the Mets. Ken Boswell is 3 for 4 with a double and run scored. He is 9 for 20 (.450) since his return to action on Aug. 23 and in the midst of a six game hitting streak.
With their 75th victory of the season, the Mets even the series at one with a double-header on tap for Sunday. However they fail to gain ground on Chicago whom defeat the Braves at Atlanta. Willie Mays who has only played 12 games this month has yet to make an appearance this series.
- Mets Record: 75-53 (.586)
- N.L. East: 2nd; 4 GB
Monday, August 19, 2019
Amazin' Date 8/19/1969: Tommie Agee Spoils Juan Marichal Gem in 14th Inning
From the desk of: HEAD-BUTTING MR. MET
Game #118: Tuesday, August 19, 1969 - BR
San Francisco Giants @ New York Mets
Shea Stadium
New York City fans old and new pack Shea Stadium once again for game one of a mid-week series against the San Francisco Giants. They do not leave disappointed, although they may have arrived home a little late. That's because the Mets and Giants battle into the 14th inning Tuesday evening before a victor is decided. Both Gary Gentry and Giants starter Juan Marichal work over time. Gary Gentry allows no runs on just four hits with four walks and five strikeouts through ten innings pitched. He does not factor in the decision. However, his mound opponent does. Juan Marichal whitewashes the Mets through the game's first 13 innings of play. With one out in the bottom half of the 14th Marichal yields only his sixth hit, but it's a game ending home run off the bat of Tommie Agee. Tug McGraw completes the shutout in relief of Gentry with four innings of one-hit ball to earn his sixth victory of the season. Cleon Jones lifts his average back upwards of .350 with three hits in five at-bats, accounting for half of the Mets six hits. Since getting swept at Houston the Mets are winners of five in a row. This game ties for their second longest of the season.
The first place Chicago Cubs blank the Atlanta Braves and improve to 12-4 in August.
AMAZIN'
THE MIRACLE METS
50th ANNIVERSARY
Game #118: Tuesday, August 19, 1969 - BR
San Francisco Giants @ New York Mets
Shea Stadium
New York City fans old and new pack Shea Stadium once again for game one of a mid-week series against the San Francisco Giants. They do not leave disappointed, although they may have arrived home a little late. That's because the Mets and Giants battle into the 14th inning Tuesday evening before a victor is decided. Both Gary Gentry and Giants starter Juan Marichal work over time. Gary Gentry allows no runs on just four hits with four walks and five strikeouts through ten innings pitched. He does not factor in the decision. However, his mound opponent does. Juan Marichal whitewashes the Mets through the game's first 13 innings of play. With one out in the bottom half of the 14th Marichal yields only his sixth hit, but it's a game ending home run off the bat of Tommie Agee. Tug McGraw completes the shutout in relief of Gentry with four innings of one-hit ball to earn his sixth victory of the season. Cleon Jones lifts his average back upwards of .350 with three hits in five at-bats, accounting for half of the Mets six hits. Since getting swept at Houston the Mets are winners of five in a row. This game ties for their second longest of the season.
The first place Chicago Cubs blank the Atlanta Braves and improve to 12-4 in August.
- Mets Record: 68-51
- N.L. East: 2nd; 8 GB
Friday, August 16, 2019
Amazin' Date 8/16/1969: Mets Sweep Twin Bill Against San Diego at Shea Stadium
From the desk of: HEAD-BUTTING MR. MET
San Diego Padres @ New York Mets
Double-Header
Shea Stadium
The Mets return home from a disappointing 4-7 road trip. They now open a ten game home stand beginning with this weekend's duel twin-bills against the San Diego Padres.
AMAZIN'
THE MIRACLE METS
50th ANNIVERSARY
San Diego Padres @ New York Mets
Double-Header
Shea Stadium
The Mets return home from a disappointing 4-7 road trip. They now open a ten game home stand beginning with this weekend's duel twin-bills against the San Diego Padres.
Back atop the mound at Shea Stadium Tom Seaver hurls eight scoreless innings allowing San Diego just four hits and two walks with four strikeouts through eight innings pitched. Ron Taylor pitches a scoreless ninth to seal Saturday's opening game shutout victory along with earning his eleventh save of the season. Tom Seaver helps his own cause in the fifth with a successful sacrifice bunt which advances Bud Harrelon into scoring position. Tommie Agee then delivers home Harrelson with the only run Seaver would need. Bobby Pheil drives in an insurance run in the seventh. Making the start at third base Bobby Pheil goes 3 for 4, and Bud Harrelson goes 2 for 3 with a run scored. Together the two account for five of the Mets nine hits. Tom Seaver wins his 17th decision of the season against seven losses with a 2.55 ERA.
San Diego takes an early one run lead on Larry Stahl's home run in the second inning. However the Padres would muster nothing more against starter Jim McAndrew and Tug McGraw. The Mets tie the game at one when Cleon Jones connects off Padres starter Dick Kelley in the fourth. Jerry Grote provides insurance in the seventh with an RBI hit scoring Ron Swoboda. Jim McAndrew allows one run on just three hits and two walks with seven strikeouts through seven innings for his fourth victory. Tug McGraw picks up his eighth save with two scoreless innings in relief of McAndrew.
The Mets are back in second place. However despite sweeping Saturday's double-header they gain but one game on the Cubs whom with Saturday's victory over San Francisco have now won 11 of their last 14 games.
San Diego takes an early one run lead on Larry Stahl's home run in the second inning. However the Padres would muster nothing more against starter Jim McAndrew and Tug McGraw. The Mets tie the game at one when Cleon Jones connects off Padres starter Dick Kelley in the fourth. Jerry Grote provides insurance in the seventh with an RBI hit scoring Ron Swoboda. Jim McAndrew allows one run on just three hits and two walks with seven strikeouts through seven innings for his fourth victory. Tug McGraw picks up his eighth save with two scoreless innings in relief of McAndrew.
The Mets are back in second place. However despite sweeping Saturday's double-header they gain but one game on the Cubs whom with Saturday's victory over San Francisco have now won 11 of their last 14 games.
- Mets Record: 64-51
- N.L. East: 2nd; 9 GB
Saturday, August 10, 2019
Amazin' Date 8/10/1969: Three Mets Pitchers Join to Whitewash Braves
From the desk of: HEAD-BUTTING MR. MET
Game #110: Sunday, August 10, 1969
New York Mets @ Atlanta Braves
Atlanta Stadium
New York takes game four by a 3-0 margin over the Braves and clinch the series victory at Atlanta Stadium. Three Mets pitchers join forces in whitewashing the Braves. Nolan Ryan makes an abbreviated start allowing no runs and no hits with just one walk through 2.1 innings pitched. Don Cardwell then pitches the bulk of the game yielding just four hits through four innings. He earns his fourth win of the season with a 3.75 ERA. Tug McGraw follows throwing one hit ball through the final 2.2 innings to earn his seventh save of the season. Tommie Agee gives the Mets a 1-0 lead in the fourth when he connects off Braves starter Jim Britton on his 19th home run of the season. The Mets score twice more in the top of the ninth on RBI singles from Cleon Jones and Wayne Garrett. In related action, the Cubs lose to the Dodgers at Los Angeles and thus the Mets gain a full game on the N.L. East leaders.
AMAZIN'
THE MIRACLE METS
50th ANNIVERSARY
Game #110: Sunday, August 10, 1969
New York Mets @ Atlanta Braves
Atlanta Stadium
New York takes game four by a 3-0 margin over the Braves and clinch the series victory at Atlanta Stadium. Three Mets pitchers join forces in whitewashing the Braves. Nolan Ryan makes an abbreviated start allowing no runs and no hits with just one walk through 2.1 innings pitched. Don Cardwell then pitches the bulk of the game yielding just four hits through four innings. He earns his fourth win of the season with a 3.75 ERA. Tug McGraw follows throwing one hit ball through the final 2.2 innings to earn his seventh save of the season. Tommie Agee gives the Mets a 1-0 lead in the fourth when he connects off Braves starter Jim Britton on his 19th home run of the season. The Mets score twice more in the top of the ninth on RBI singles from Cleon Jones and Wayne Garrett. In related action, the Cubs lose to the Dodgers at Los Angeles and thus the Mets gain a full game on the N.L. East leaders.
- Mets Record: 62-48 (.563)
- N.L. East: 2nd; 7.5 GB
Friday, August 02, 2019
Amazin' Date 8/2/1969: McAndrew and McGraw Join to Whitewash Braves
From the desk of: HEAD-BUTTING MR. MET
Game #101: Saturday, August 2, 1969 - BR
Atlanta Braves @ New York Mets
Shea Stadium
METS TAKE SECOND STRAIGHT FROM N.L. WEST LEADING ATLANTA BRAVES
The dog days of summer are upon us. A crowd of 37,000+ fans in attendance at Shea Stadium on Saturday night are either witness to lethargy, adroit pitching, or a little of both. Jim McAndrew toes the rubber for New York and is opposed by Atlanta's Ron Reed. Both duel to a scoreless tie through six. In the bottom of the seventh Reed commits one of the cardinal sins of pitching: do not walk the lead-off batter. Ron Swoboda takes his base and is promptly bunted successfully to second. When Jerry Grote grounds to short, Swoboda runs behind the throw advancing to third. Pinch hitting, Cleon Jones strokes a clean single up the middle scoring Swoboda with the lone run of the game. Ron Reed yields the one run on four hits and three walks with six strikeouts through seven innings for the loss. Hank Aaron triples of McAndrew in the first but is left stranded. McAndrew goes on to complete seven scoreless innings of three hit ball with just two walks and seven strikeouts en rout to his third win of the season. Tug McGraw closes out the Braves over final two frames completing the shutout and earning his sixth save. Tom Seaver appears as a pinch runner.
AMAZIN'
THE MIRACLE METS
50th ANNIVERSARY
Game #101: Saturday, August 2, 1969 - BR
Atlanta Braves @ New York Mets
Shea Stadium
METS TAKE SECOND STRAIGHT FROM N.L. WEST LEADING ATLANTA BRAVES
The dog days of summer are upon us. A crowd of 37,000+ fans in attendance at Shea Stadium on Saturday night are either witness to lethargy, adroit pitching, or a little of both. Jim McAndrew toes the rubber for New York and is opposed by Atlanta's Ron Reed. Both duel to a scoreless tie through six. In the bottom of the seventh Reed commits one of the cardinal sins of pitching: do not walk the lead-off batter. Ron Swoboda takes his base and is promptly bunted successfully to second. When Jerry Grote grounds to short, Swoboda runs behind the throw advancing to third. Pinch hitting, Cleon Jones strokes a clean single up the middle scoring Swoboda with the lone run of the game. Ron Reed yields the one run on four hits and three walks with six strikeouts through seven innings for the loss. Hank Aaron triples of McAndrew in the first but is left stranded. McAndrew goes on to complete seven scoreless innings of three hit ball with just two walks and seven strikeouts en rout to his third win of the season. Tug McGraw closes out the Braves over final two frames completing the shutout and earning his sixth save. Tom Seaver appears as a pinch runner.
- Mets Record: 57-44 (.564)
- N.L. East: 2nd; 6.5 GB
Wednesday, July 24, 2019
Amazin' Date 7/24/1969: Reds Upend Mets in 12th Inning
From the desk of: HEAD-BUTTING MR. MET
Game #93: Thursday, July 24, 1969 - BR
Cincinnati Reds @ New York Mets
Shea Stadium
The season's second half is officially underway with the Cincinnati Reds in town to play a four game weekend series at Shea Stadium. Thursday's opener turned into a game of horse of sorts. Starters Gary Gentry and Jim Merritt traded zeroes for the first five innings. Then with one out in the sixth, big hitting center fielder Bobby Tolan connects off Gentry for his 18th home run of the season. With one out in the bottom half of the frame, Donn Clendenon reciprocates with a home run off Merritt. The Reds strike back two innings later. Lee May's sac-fly to center scores Pete Rose from third for a 2-1 Reds lead. However Cleon Jones answers back with a home run leading-off the bottom half of the eighth. With two outs in the top of the ninth Reds manager Dave Bristol lets his starting pitcher bat. Merritt rewards his manager's benevolence with a solo home run off Gentry giving himself a 3-2 lead. But when Al Weis singles leading-off the bottom half of the frame Bristol calls in Wayne Granger from the bullpen. Tommie Agee greets the Reds reliever with a come-backer but Granger's errant throw allows Weis to advance to third. Art Shamsky follows with a ground ball to second but Weis is cut down at home; Agee advances to third. Next in, Wayne Garrett's sac-fly to right scores Agee knotting the game at three.
Both Gentry and Merritt walk off with no decisions. Gentry yields three runs, two earned, on seven hits and one walk with eight strikeouts. Merritt allows three earned runs on nine hits and one walk with five strikeouts.
Into the twelfth they go. With Tug McGraw pitching in relief of Gentry slugger Tony Perez connects on his 23rd home run of the season. The Mets this time have no answer against Pedro Ramos pitching the tenth in relief of Granger. The Reds prevail by a 4-3 margin over the Mets.
AMAZIN'
THE MIRACLE METS
50th ANNIVERSARY
Game #93: Thursday, July 24, 1969 - BR
Cincinnati Reds @ New York Mets
Shea Stadium
The season's second half is officially underway with the Cincinnati Reds in town to play a four game weekend series at Shea Stadium. Thursday's opener turned into a game of horse of sorts. Starters Gary Gentry and Jim Merritt traded zeroes for the first five innings. Then with one out in the sixth, big hitting center fielder Bobby Tolan connects off Gentry for his 18th home run of the season. With one out in the bottom half of the frame, Donn Clendenon reciprocates with a home run off Merritt. The Reds strike back two innings later. Lee May's sac-fly to center scores Pete Rose from third for a 2-1 Reds lead. However Cleon Jones answers back with a home run leading-off the bottom half of the eighth. With two outs in the top of the ninth Reds manager Dave Bristol lets his starting pitcher bat. Merritt rewards his manager's benevolence with a solo home run off Gentry giving himself a 3-2 lead. But when Al Weis singles leading-off the bottom half of the frame Bristol calls in Wayne Granger from the bullpen. Tommie Agee greets the Reds reliever with a come-backer but Granger's errant throw allows Weis to advance to third. Art Shamsky follows with a ground ball to second but Weis is cut down at home; Agee advances to third. Next in, Wayne Garrett's sac-fly to right scores Agee knotting the game at three.
Both Gentry and Merritt walk off with no decisions. Gentry yields three runs, two earned, on seven hits and one walk with eight strikeouts. Merritt allows three earned runs on nine hits and one walk with five strikeouts.
Into the twelfth they go. With Tug McGraw pitching in relief of Gentry slugger Tony Perez connects on his 23rd home run of the season. The Mets this time have no answer against Pedro Ramos pitching the tenth in relief of Granger. The Reds prevail by a 4-3 margin over the Mets.
- Mets Record: 53-40
- N.L. East: 2nd; 6 GB
Tuesday, July 02, 2019
Amazin' Date 7/2/1969: Mets Defeat Cards in 14-Innings at Busch Stadium
From the desk of: HEAD-BUTTING MR. MET
Game #75: Wednesday, July 2, 1969 - BR
New York Mets @ St. Louis Cardinals
Busch Stadium
Tug McGraw Cages Cards; Tosses Six Scoreless Innings in Relief
On the road again, the Mets rebound from Tuesday's twin bill sweep at Busch Stadium with a well earned game four victory knotting this five game series at two. However, it takes the Mets 14 innings to get it done.
The Mets add to a 3-0 lead with an insurance run in the top of the eighth. But the Cardinals finally catch up with starter Jerry Koosman and knock him out of the box in the bottom half of the eighth but not before yielding three earned runs on seven hits and four walks with four strikeouts. Ron Taylor surrenders the game tying run in relief of Koosman. Tug Mcgraw then engages the St. Louis bullpen in a scoreless duel over the next five innings. The Mets finally break through in the top of the 14th with a two-out Ken Boswell hit scoring Tommie Agee from second, and a bases loaded walk issued to Wayne Garrett. Tug McGraw pitches a scoreless bottom half of the frame to earn his fifth victory of the season against just one loss.
Wayne Garrett goes 4 for 6 with a double, walk, and four RBI. Donn Clendenon, and Ken Boswell drive in one run apiece.
AMAZIN'
THE MIRACLE METS
50th ANNIVERSARY
50th ANNIVERSARY
Game #75: Wednesday, July 2, 1969 - BR
New York Mets @ St. Louis Cardinals
Busch Stadium
Tug McGraw Cages Cards; Tosses Six Scoreless Innings in Relief
On the road again, the Mets rebound from Tuesday's twin bill sweep at Busch Stadium with a well earned game four victory knotting this five game series at two. However, it takes the Mets 14 innings to get it done.
The Mets add to a 3-0 lead with an insurance run in the top of the eighth. But the Cardinals finally catch up with starter Jerry Koosman and knock him out of the box in the bottom half of the eighth but not before yielding three earned runs on seven hits and four walks with four strikeouts. Ron Taylor surrenders the game tying run in relief of Koosman. Tug Mcgraw then engages the St. Louis bullpen in a scoreless duel over the next five innings. The Mets finally break through in the top of the 14th with a two-out Ken Boswell hit scoring Tommie Agee from second, and a bases loaded walk issued to Wayne Garrett. Tug McGraw pitches a scoreless bottom half of the frame to earn his fifth victory of the season against just one loss.
Wayne Garrett goes 4 for 6 with a double, walk, and four RBI. Donn Clendenon, and Ken Boswell drive in one run apiece.
- Mets Record: 41-34 (.547)
- N.L. East: 2nd; 8 GB
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)