1986 World Series Game 6: Mets Vs. Red Sox Box Score
Alright guys, let's dive deep into one of the most iconic and nail-biting games in baseball history: Game 6 of the 1986 World Series. This matchup between the Boston Red Sox and the New York Mets wasn't just a game; it was a rollercoaster of emotions, a true testament to the unpredictable nature of the sport. If you're a baseball fan, especially one who remembers this era, you're in for a treat as we break down the box score and relive the magic (and heartbreak) of that fateful October night. We're going to go through each inning, highlight key plays, and really get into what made this game such a legendary event. So grab your popcorn, settle in, and let's rewind to October 25, 1986, at Shea Stadium.
The Setup: Red Sox on the Brink
The stage was set for a dramatic conclusion, or so it seemed. The Boston Red Sox held a commanding 3 games to 2 lead heading into Game 6. They had played incredibly well throughout the series, showcasing their powerful offense and solid pitching. The pressure was immense, not just on the players, but on the entire city of Boston, which had been waiting for a World Series title for what felt like an eternity. For the Red Sox, this was the opportunity to finally bring the championship home. They had a talented squad, led by stars like Jim Rice, Dwight Evans, and Roger Clemens, who had pitched brilliantly in Game 2. The expectation was that they would close it out, etching their names in baseball immortality. However, baseball, as we all know, has a funny way of defying expectations, and Game 6 would prove to be the ultimate example of that. The Mets, on the other hand, were facing elimination. They had fought hard to get to the World Series, but now they were down, needing to win two straight games to even have a chance at glory. The weight of expectation was heavy, but for the New York Mets, there was still a glimmer of hope, fueled by their own resilient spirit and the home-field advantage at Shea Stadium.
Game 6: A Thrilling Narrative Unfolds
Let's get straight to the action. The starting pitchers for this monumental game were Al Leiter for the New York Mets and John McNamara (manager) deciding to start Bruce Hurst for the Boston Red Sox. Hurst had been their ace, and the decision to start him indicated Boston's intent to end the series decisively. The game started as many expected, with tight play and strong pitching. However, things began to unravel for the Red Sox in the middle innings. The Mets, playing with their backs against the wall, found a new gear. Davey Johnson, the Mets' manager, knew his team needed a spark, and they certainly found one. The narrative of the game shifted dramatically, turning into a classic underdog story with the Mets fighting for survival. The crowd at Shea Stadium was electric, sensing that something special might be happening. Every pitch, every hit, every out was amplified by the palpable tension in the air. The Red Sox, perhaps feeling the pressure of closing out the series, started to make uncharacteristic mistakes, and the Mets capitalized ruthlessly. This wasn't just about who was the better team on paper; it was about who wanted it more, who could handle the pressure, and who would make the crucial plays when it mattered most. The momentum began to swing, and it was a swing that would be felt for decades to come.
Key Moments and the Box Score Breakdown
Now, let's dissect the official box score of this legendary Game 6. The final score was New York Mets 6, Boston Red Sox 5. It was a one-run game, highlighting just how close and intense the competition was. The Mets got on the board first in the second inning with a sacrifice fly by Gary Carter, scoring Ray Knight. This set the tone, showing the Mets weren't going down without a fight. However, the Red Sox responded quickly, taking a 2-1 lead in the fourth inning thanks to a two-run homer by Marty Barrett. This seemed like it might be the start of Boston sealing the deal. But then came the pivotal sixth inning. The Mets staged a furious rally, scoring three runs to take a 4-2 lead. Key hits during this rally included a single by Wally Backman and a crucial two-run double by Lenny Dykstra. The momentum had firmly shifted to the Mets' dugout. The Red Sox, however, are known for their grit, and they weren't done yet. In the top of the eighth inning, Boston mounted a comeback of their own. Dave Henderson hit a dramatic two-run home run off Roger McDowell, tying the game at 3-3. This was a moment that sent shockwaves through Shea Stadium, as the Red Sox seemed to have snatched the game back from the jaws of defeat. But wait, there's more! The game continued to be a back-and-forth affair. In the bottom of the eighth, the Red Sox, with their ace Roger Clemens on the mound earlier, took the lead again, scoring two runs to make it 5-3. A sacrifice fly by Don Baylor scored Jim Rice, and then a single by Gary Carter brought home Ray Knight. This lead, however, would not hold. The bottom of the ninth inning is where the real magic happened for the Mets and the heartbreak for the Red Sox. With two outs and trailing by two runs, the Mets staged an improbable comeback. Ray Knight hit a game-tying RBI single, scoring Lenny Dykstra. Then, Davey Johnson's decision to pinch-hit Mookie Wilson paid off immensely. Wilson hit a slow roller to first base, a ball that famously went through the legs of Red Sox first baseman Bill Buckner, allowing Ray Knight to score the winning run. This iconic play, often referred to as "The Error," sealed the Mets' victory and sent the game into extra innings.
