In a season marked by unexpected turns and the occasional glimmer of hope, the New York Mets have credited an improbable figure for their recent resurgence: Grimace, the beloved purple mascot of McDonald's.
A Touch of Purple
At Citi Field, nestled in Row 6, Seat 12 of Section 302, stands a purple seat installed to commemorate Grimace's influence on the team's fortunes. "It's here and it's perfect! We've installed a commemorative purple seat to recognize Grimace in section 302, row 6, seat 12," the New York Mets announced via Twitter, highlighting this unconventional yet celebratory move.
The Turning Point
Grimace's connection to the Mets' turnaround story began with a ceremonial first pitch on June 12. At that time, the Mets were languishing with a 29-37 record, seemingly out of playoff contention. However, this marked the beginning of a remarkable seven-game win streak. The team rode the momentum of that streak, finishing June with a 12-4 run and carrying the newfound energy into July.
July's Success
Building on their June success, the Mets posted an impressive 17-10 record in July, putting them back in the mix for a playoff berth. This surge has placed them in contention, tied for the final National League wild-card spot. It's a testament to how quickly fortunes can change in baseball and how pivotal moments, even those involving mascots, can galvanize a team.
Critical Final Stretch
As the regular season winds down, the Mets have 13 critical games remaining. Among these, a seven-game homestand starting Monday will be pivotal in determining their postseason fate. The team’s ability to maintain their winning momentum will be crucial as they vie for a spot in the playoffs.
This unexpected turnaround spearheaded by Grimace's first pitch is now part of Mets folklore. How far will this inspiration take them? Only time will tell, but for now, the purple seat stands as a symbol of an extraordinary and uplifting chapter in the Mets' season.