In the heart of Los Angeles, the iconic plastic orange sign lay abandoned on the dugout bench, a silent witness to the Mets’ defeat in Game 6 of the NLCS.
As the Mets retreated into the depths of Dodger Stadium after their 10-5 loss, the celebration of the victorious Dodgers erupted on the field amidst a shower of fireworks. Some Mets lingered to watch, absorbing the agony of a missed opportunity, while others, like Francisco Lindor, sought solace in the clubhouse, avoiding the jubilant scene. The team’s oversized plastic OMG sign, a symbol of their season, remained neglected, a bright spot in a dark night.
The phrase “OMG” had become a rallying cry for the Mets earlier in the season, inspired by a song released by second baseman Jose Iglesias. The viral song propelled the Mets to new heights, with the slogan adorning hats, shirts, and the giant plastic sign that accompanied the team to every game, capturing moments of triumph with each home run.
But as the final out was recorded and the reality of defeat set in, the sign lay abandoned, a stark reminder of what could have been. Eventually, a Mets clubhouse attendant retrieved the sign, carrying it away out of sight, perhaps for good.
It was in this realm of fantasy, beneath palm trees and a pastel sky, that the magic of the 2024 Mets came to an end.
Despite their exhilarating journey, characterized by chaos and improbable victories, the Mets succumbed to the harsh truth of baseball: pitching wins games.
The narrative of their downfall was simple yet poignant. Starter Sean Manaea faltered, allowing five runs in just six outs, while the bullpen struggled to contain the Dodgers’ offense. The Mets fought valiantly but fell short in their comeback attempts, unable to deliver the decisive blow.
And so, the Dodgers advanced to the World Series, setting up a historic showdown with the New York Yankees. Meanwhile, the Mets returned home, reflecting on their season of highs and lows.
While the ending was bittersweet, the 2024 Mets achieved something significant.
Resurrected from obscurity in May, the Mets surged to the top of the standings, fueled by a mix of talent and determination. They created moments that will be etched in baseball lore, from Pete Alonso’s clutch home run to Francisco Lindor’s grand slam.
“Those moments,” Alonso reflected, “that’s what you play for.”
As the Mets face an offseason of uncertainty and change, the essence of this remarkable team will endure in the memories of fans and players alike. While new faces and gimmicks may emerge, the spirit of the 2024 Mets will remain unmatched.
President of baseball operations David Stearns faces tough decisions ahead, with key players set to hit free agency. The team may look different come spring, but the foundation is strong, led by a committed leadership group.
As the Mets bid farewell to a season filled with highs and lows, the echoes of their journey will linger in the clubhouse. Memories shared, bonds forged, and a sense of camaraderie that transcends wins and losses.
And as the Mets go their separate ways, the magic of the 2024 season will live on, a reminder of what could have been and what was.