1986 World Series: Who Did The Mets Play?

The 1986 World Series is a legendary chapter in baseball history, forever etched in the memories of New York Mets fans and baseball enthusiasts alike. But who exactly did those Amazing Mets face off against in that unforgettable series? The answer, my friends, is the Boston Red Sox. This series was a rollercoaster of emotions, filled with dramatic twists and turns that culminated in one of the most iconic moments in World Series history. Let's dive deep into this classic matchup and relive the excitement, the tension, and the ultimate triumph of the Mets.

The Road to the 1986 World Series

Before we get into the specifics of the World Series, let's take a quick look at how both teams got there. The New York Mets, led by their young and talented roster, dominated the National League East with a record of 108-54. Players like Darryl Strawberry, Gary Carter, and Dwight Gooden were instrumental in their success. Their blend of power hitting, speed, and dominant pitching made them a force to be reckoned with. The Mets then faced the Houston Astros in a thrilling National League Championship Series (NLCS), which went the full six games and included an epic 16-inning Game 6 that is still talked about today. After an NLCS that has been considerd one of the greatest of all time, the Mets emerged victorious, securing their spot in the World Series.

On the other side of the spectrum, the Boston Red Sox had their own journey to the Fall Classic. They clinched the American League East title with a record of 95-66, powered by the incredible performance of Wade Boggs, Jim Rice, and a resurgent Roger Clemens. Clemens, in particular, had a Cy Young-winning season, solidifying his place as one of the game's top pitchers. The Red Sox then faced the California Angels in the American League Championship Series (ALCS). This series was also full of drama, with the Red Sox overcoming a 3-1 deficit to win the series in seven games. Dave Henderson's game-tying home run in Game 5 at Anaheim is one of the most memorable moments in Red Sox postseason history, setting the stage for their dramatic comeback.

The 1986 World Series: A Game-by-Game Breakdown

The 1986 World Series was a best-of-seven series, and it certainly lived up to the hype. Each game had its own unique storyline, and the series as a whole was a nail-biting experience for fans of both teams.

Game 1: Red Sox 1, Mets 0

The series kicked off at Shea Stadium in New York, and it was a tight, low-scoring affair. Bruce Hurst of the Red Sox pitched a masterful game, shutting out the Mets and allowing only four hits. The Red Sox scored the only run of the game in the seventh inning, giving them an early lead in the series. The Mets struggled to get their offense going, and Hurst's performance set the tone for what many expected to be a Red Sox-dominated series.

Game 2: Mets 9, Red Sox 3

The Mets bounced back in Game 2, evening the series with a decisive victory. Gary Carter had a big game, driving in four runs. The Mets' offense came alive, and their pitching was solid enough to keep the Red Sox at bay. This win was crucial for the Mets, as it prevented them from falling into a 2-0 hole heading to Boston.

Game 3: Red Sox 7, Mets 1

As the series shifted to Fenway Park in Boston, the Red Sox regained the lead. They dominated Game 3, with their offense exploding for seven runs. Oil Can Boyd pitched well for the Red Sox, and the Mets' bats went silent once again. The Red Sox fans were ecstatic as their team took a 2-1 lead in the series.

Game 4: Mets 6, Red Sox 2

The Mets responded once again, tying the series at 2-2 with a win in Game 4. Dwight Gooden pitched a strong game, and the Mets' offense provided enough support to secure the victory. This win was essential for the Mets, as it prevented the Red Sox from taking a commanding 3-1 lead.

Game 5: Red Sox 4, Mets 2

The Red Sox edged out the Mets in Game 5, taking a 3-2 lead in the series. Bruce Hurst pitched another gem, and the Red Sox were just one win away from their first World Series title since 1918. The pressure was mounting on the Mets as they headed back to New York.

Game 6: Mets 6, Red Sox 5 (10 innings)

Game 6 is the game that will forever be remembered in World Series history. With the Mets trailing 5-3 in the bottom of the tenth inning and down to their last out, a series of improbable events unfolded. Gary Carter singled, followed by a single from Kevin Mitchell. Then, Ray Knight singled to drive in Carter, making it 5-4. With two outs, Mookie Wilson stepped up to the plate and hit a slow roller to first base. Red Sox first baseman Bill Buckner infamously let the ball go through his legs, allowing Knight to score the winning run. The Mets won the game 6-5 in 10 innings, forcing a Game 7.

Game 7: Mets 8, Red Sox 5

The momentum from Game 6 carried over into Game 7, as the Mets completed their comeback and won the World Series. They defeated the Red Sox 8-5, capping off an incredible season and series. The Mets' resilience and never-say-die attitude were on full display, and their victory cemented their place in baseball lore.

Key Players and Moments

The 1986 World Series was filled with memorable performances and iconic moments. Here are some of the key players and moments that defined the series:

• Gary Carter: "The Kid" had a strong series overall and his single that started the rally in Game 6 is what kickstarted the comeback.
• Mookie Wilson: Wilson's slow roller and Buckner's error will forever be remembered as one of the most improbable plays in World Series history.
• Bruce Hurst: The Red Sox pitcher had two excellent outings, winning Game 1 and nearly winning Game 5.
• Bill Buckner: While Buckner had a long and distinguished career, his error in Game 6 will forever be associated with the 1986 World Series.
• Dave Henderson: While Henderson's ALCS heroics didn't translate to the World Series, his earlier performance was crucial in getting the Red Sox to the Fall Classic.

The Aftermath

The Mets' victory in the 1986 World Series was a defining moment for the franchise and the city of New York. The team was celebrated as heroes, and the series became an instant classic. For the Red Sox, the loss was a crushing blow, extending their championship drought and adding to the Curse of the Bambino.

The 1986 World Series remains one of the most exciting and memorable series in baseball history. The drama, the comebacks, and the iconic moments have all contributed to its enduring legacy. Whether you're a Mets fan, a Red Sox fan, or just a lover of the game, the 1986 World Series is a series that will continue to be talked about for generations to come.

So, to answer the initial question: The New York Mets played the Boston Red Sox in the 1986 World Series, and it was a series for the ages!