First game at Shea Stadium, New York Mets lose to Pittsburgh Pirates, 4-3.

On April 17, 1964, history was made as the New York Mets played their first ever game at Shea Stadium. The atmosphere was electric as fans eagerly anticipated the start of a new era in New York baseball. However, the day did not go as planned for the Mets, as they suffered a close 4-3 loss to the Pittsburgh Pirates.

The construction of Shea Stadium was a monumental undertaking. Located in Flushing Meadows, Queens, the stadium was built to replace the aging Polo Grounds, which the Mets had been renting since their inaugural season in 1962. With a seating capacity of over 50,000, Shea Stadium was designed to be a state-of-the-art facility and a beacon of modernity.

As the Mets took the field for the first time at Shea Stadium, excitement filled the air. Fans in attendance were treated to a pre-game ceremony that included a parade of former Brooklyn Dodgers and New York Giants players. It was a nostalgic nod to the city’s baseball history, while also symbolizing the passing of the torch to the new team in town.

On the mound for the Mets was a young and promising pitcher named Jack Fisher. He had the honor of throwing the first pitch at Shea Stadium, an event that would forever be etched in his memory. Fisher’s performance that day was solid, as he pitched a complete game and struck out five batters. However, he also gave up four runs, which proved to be the difference in the game.

The Pirates, led by their ace Bob Friend, took an early lead in the first inning, scoring two runs. The Mets quickly responded in the bottom of the inning, with their first baseman, Eddie Kranepool, hitting a solo home run, sending the crowd into a frenzy. The score remained 2-1 until the seventh inning when Pittsburgh added two more runs, extending their lead to 4-1.

The Mets fought back in the ninth inning, with two runs scored by Ron Hunt and Ed Bouchee, bringing the score to 4-3. With the tying run on third base and the winning run at second, the crowd held its breath in anticipation. Unfortunately, the Mets couldn’t complete the comeback, as the next batter grounded out to end the game.

Despite the loss, the inaugural game at Shea Stadium was a significant moment in both Mets and New York City history. It marked the beginning of a new era for the team and solidified Shea Stadium as its home for the next 45 seasons. Over the years, the stadium would witness numerous memorable moments, including the Mets’ World Series championships in 1969 and 1986.

Although the loss was disappointing, it did not overshadow the excitement and optimism surrounding the Mets’ future at Shea Stadium. The team had assembled a talented roster, and their fan base was growing rapidly. The stadium itself was praised for its modern amenities and comfortable seating, establishing a new standard for baseball facilities.

Shea Stadium would go on to become a beloved landmark in Queens, hosting not only Mets games but also concerts and other sporting events. It became a gathering place for New Yorkers to come together and cheer on their team. The stadium’s iconic features, such as the “Big Apple” home run apple and the “shea bridge,” will forever be etched in the memories of Mets fans.

the first game at Shea Stadium on April 17, 1964, may have ended in a loss for the New York Mets, but it marked the beginning of a new era for the team and the city. Despite the disappointment, the game showcased the potential and excitement that would define the Mets’ history at Shea Stadium. It was a day that will forever hold a special place in the hearts of Mets fans and baseball enthusiasts alike.