In a rare event that has not occurred in 24 years, both the New York Mets and New York Yankees emerged victorious in their respective playoff games on the same day. The Mets secured a thrilling 6-2 win against the Philadelphia Phillies in the National League Division Series, showcasing an impressive late comeback with a five-run surge in the eighth inning. Meanwhile, the Yankees claimed a 6-5 victory over the Kansas City Royals in the American League Division Series at Yankee Stadium, aided by a crucial hit and a spectacular catch from outfielder Alex Verdugo.
This unique occurrence marks only the sixth time in history that both New York teams have won postseason games on the same day. The previous instances took place in 1999 and 2000, with the most recent simultaneous victories transpiring on October 11, 2000. During that day, the Yankees triumphed in the AL Championship Series Game 2 against the Seattle Mariners, while the Mets secured a win over the Cardinals in the NL Championship Series, setting the stage for an eventual Subway Series matchup later that month.
The Mets and Yankees, known for their storied rivalry, have the two highest payrolls in baseball this season, each exceeding $300 million. Despite their financial prowess, both teams have not reached the Division Series simultaneously since 2006. In that season, the Yankees suffered an upset at the hands of the Detroit Tigers in the ALDS, while the Mets advanced to the NLCS only to fall short in a decisive Game 7 against the St. Louis Cardinals.
The absence of playoff appearances for both New York teams in the previous season marked a significant departure from their usual postseason contention, as it was the first time in nine years that neither team made a playoff appearance. The recent victories for the Mets and Yankees have reignited hope among fans for a potential Subway Series showdown, reminiscent of the historic 2000 World Series clash that culminated with the Yankees claiming victory over the Mets in five games.
With the current momentum and high stakes of the playoffs, New York baseball enthusiasts eagerly anticipate the possibility of witnessing another Subway Series, where the Mets and Yankees could potentially face off for baseball supremacy in the ultimate showdown of the Big Apple.
