The 1999 World Series Heartbreak
A miraculous run to the postseason ended in a devastating six-game NLCS loss to Atlanta.
The 1999 NLCS Heartbreak stands as one of the most defining and painful chapters in New York Mets history, marking the culmination of a miraculous regular season that ended in sudden collapse. After overcoming a historic deficit to reach the postseason, the Mets faced the Atlanta Braves in the National League Championship Series, only to lose in six games to a dominant pitching staff led by Tom Glavine and Greg Maddux.
Quick Facts
- Defining moment
- Game 5 at Shea Stadium – Robin Ventura's Grand Slam Single
Lore & Background
The series itself was characterized by a stark contrast in pitching dominance. While the Mets' offense struggled to find its rhythm, the Braves' rotation, anchored by Cy Young Award winners Tom Glavine and Greg Maddux, stifled New York at every turn. The heartbreak peaked during Game 6 at Turner Field; with the Mets leading 3-2 in the bottom of the 11th, Kenny Rogers walked Andruw Jones with the bases loaded, forcing in the tying run. The winning run then scored on a subsequent sacrifice fly, sending the Braves to the World Series.
Reader's Guide
The 1990s for the Mets were a period of rebuilding and transition following their championship years in the late 60s and early 70s. By 1998, Bobby Valentine took over as manager with a mandate to revitalize the franchise. Valentine's first season yielded immediate results. The team fought back from a massive mid-season hole, fueled by the return of veteran Darryl Strawberry and the steady leadership of Piazza. This resilience defined their identity as underdogs who refused to quit. The 1999 season began with high expectations after the previous year's turnaround. The Mets dominated the NL East, securing the division title in dramatic fashion. Their playoff path was arduous but successful until they reached the World Series stage. The collapse against Atlanta marked a turning point. The inability to score runs and the pitching disparity exposed gaps that would haunt the franchise for years. The aftermath saw a period of reflection and eventual roster overhauls as the team sought to recover from the psychological blow.
Did You Know?
- The 1999 Mets overcame a 9.5 game deficit in the division race in August, one of the largest comebacks in MLB history at that time.
- Mariano Rivera was named the 1999 World Series MVP for the New York Yankees.
- This remains the only NLCS appearance for the Mets during the 1990s decade.
- Al Leiter, who had been a key part of the comeback, started and won Game 3 at Shea Stadium, allowing just two hits over seven innings.
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