Baseball isn’t just a sport in the United States; it’s a cultural phenomenon, especially in New York City. Two of the most iconic baseball teams, the New York Yankees and the New York Mets, have captured the hearts of fans for decades. But if you’ve ever wondered which team came first, let’s embark on a journey through baseball history.
The Early Inception of the Yankees
The Yankees’ story began in 1901 when the team was founded as the Baltimore Orioles in Maryland. However, due to a series of events, in 1903, the franchise was purchased and relocated to New York City. Initially known as the “Highlanders” because their stadium was located at one of the highest points in Manhattan, the team’s name wasn’t well - received by fans.
In 1904, the nickname “Yankees” was coined, and it gradually stuck. By 1913, the team officially adopted the name New York Yankees. The Yankees’ move to the Polo Grounds in 1913 marked an important milestone. After that, the team’s new owners made significant investments, signing star players. The acquisition of Babe Ruth from the Boston Red Sox in 1920 was a game - changer. Ruth’s arrival not only increased the team’s popularity but also led to a string of championships. The Yankees won their first World Series in 1923, and they went on to claim an astonishing 27 World Series titles, more than any other team in Major League Baseball history.
The Birth of the Mets
The New York Mets, on the other hand, came into existence much later. In the late 1950s, New York City faced a significant change in its baseball landscape when the Brooklyn Dodgers and the New York Giants both moved to the West Coast. As a result, the city was left with only one Major League Baseball team, the Yankees.
In response to this, Joan Payson, a former minority owner of the Giants, was allocated an expansion team in 1962. Thus, the New York Mets were born. In their early years, the Mets struggled on the field. They were often referred to as “lovable losers” because of their poor win - loss records. However, in 1969, the Mets pulled off one of the biggest upsets in baseball history. Nicknamed the “Miracle Mets,” they won the World Series, shocking the baseball world.
Comparing the Timelines
From the above historical accounts, it’s clear that the Yankees have a much longer history than the Mets. The Yankees were established in 1901, while the Mets didn’t come into existence until 1962, a full 61 years later. The Yankees had already built a dynasty, winning multiple World Series titles, when the Mets were just getting started.
Despite the Yankees’ head start, the Mets have also had their moments of glory. Their two World Series championships in 1969 and 1986 are testament to their ability to compete at the highest level.
In conclusion, when it comes to the question of who came first, the Yankees hold the distinction. But both teams have made indelible marks on the history of baseball and continue to be an important part of New York City’s sports and cultural fabric. Whether you’re a die - hard Yankees fan or a loyal Mets supporter, there’s no denying the rich history and excitement that these two teams bring to the sport of baseball.