The 1962 New York Mets season marked the beginning of a new era in Major League Baseball as the team made its debut. Managed by the legendary Casey Stengel, the Mets faced a challenging start, finishing with a record of 40-120. Despite their struggles on the field, the team garnered significant fan support, drawing large crowds to their games at the Polo Grounds. This article delves into the trials and tribulations of the Mets' inaugural season and the unwavering
support from their fans.
A Rocky Start
The New York Mets entered the 1962 season as an expansion team in the National League, filling the void left by the departure of the Brooklyn Dodgers and New York Giants. Under the management of Casey Stengel, the Mets faced an uphill battle from the start. They lost their first game 11-4 to the St. Louis Cardinals and went on to lose their first nine games. The team's performance was marred by a series of losing streaks, including a 17-game skid in May and additional streaks of 11 and 13 losses in July and August, respectively.
Despite these setbacks, the Mets managed to secure their first win on April 23, defeating the Pittsburgh Pirates 9-1. This victory was a significant milestone, as it marked the Pirates' first loss after a 10-0 start to the season. The Mets' first home win came on April 28 against the Philadelphia Phillies, providing a glimmer of hope for the struggling team.
Fan Support at the Polo Grounds
While the Mets' performance on the field was less than stellar, their fan support was anything but. The team played their home games at the Polo Grounds, a temporary venue while Shea Stadium was under construction. Despite their poor record, the Mets drew an impressive attendance of 922,530 fans during the 1962 season, ranking sixth in the National League.
This strong fan turnout was a testament to the loyalty and enthusiasm of New York baseball fans, who were eager to support their new team. The Mets' ability to attract such large crowds despite their struggles on the field highlighted the deep connection between the team and its supporters.
A Season to Remember
The 1962 season was chronicled in Jimmy Breslin's humorous book, "Can't Anybody Here Play This Game?" The title, inspired by a remark from Casey Stengel, captured the frustration and comedic elements of the Mets' inaugural season. Despite their record-setting 120 losses, the Mets' first season laid the foundation for the team's future success.
One of the few bright spots for the Mets was left fielder Frank Thomas, who hit .266 with 34 home runs and 94 RBIs. His performance provided a silver lining in an otherwise challenging season. The Mets' inaugural season may have been marked by struggles, but it also showcased the resilience of the team and the unwavering support of their fans, setting the stage for future triumphs.
