Bill Buckner's Error (1986 World Series Game 6)
The error that defined a World Series and haunted a franchise.
In the bottom of the tenth inning of Game 6 of the 1986 World Series at Shea Stadium in Flushing, Queens, New York on October 25, 1986, Boston Red Sox first baseman Bill Buckner made a fielding error that resulted in the New York Mets winning the game; it remains one of the most memorable plays in baseball history.
Quick Facts
- Event
- Bill Buckner's Error
- Date
- October 25, 1986
- Location
- Shea Stadium, Queens, New York
- Series
- World Series Game 6
- Opponent
- Boston Red Sox
- Key player involved
- Bill Buckner (Red Sox)
- Outcome
- Mets win game; force Game 7
Lore & Background
With the Red Sox leading the best-of-seven series three games to two but having allowed the Mets to tie the game with two runs in the bottom of the tenth, with two outs and a runner on second base, New York's Mookie Wilson hit a seemingly routine groundball along the first base foul line that Buckner, known to be playing through injury, was unable to field. The ball rolled between Buckner's legs and into right field, allowing the Mets' Ray Knight to come around from second to score the winning run. The win tied the series at three games each; New York completed another come-from-behind victory in Game 7 to win the championship.
Reader's Guide
Despite other mitigating factors—such as that the speedy Wilson may have been safe at first even if Buckner had fielded the ball, or that Boston's pitching had already squandered a two-run lead and that Buckner making the play would have merely prolonged the game and not clinched victory for Boston—the play is often known as the 'Buckner play' and the loss blamed on the play's eponymous figure. The play was long considered part of the Curse of the Bambino that kept the Red Sox from winning the World Series, and it led to years of fan anger and public mockery that Buckner handled graciously before being embraced by Red Sox fans again after their 2004 World Series victory. Buckner himself, though having played a lengthy 21-season career in Major League Baseball and amassing over 2,700 hits, remains most remembered for his error in the minds of many.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is this specific play considered so critical for the New York Mets?
The error prevented the Red Sox from clinching the championship, forcing a Game 7 that the Mets ultimately won to secure their second World Series title. It transformed a potential elimination into a historic comeback victory for the franchise.
Who was the batter involved when Bill Buckner made his famous mistake?
The ball was hit by Mets pinch-hitter Mookie Wilson, who reached first base after the ground ball passed through Buckner's legs. Wilson then advanced to second on a throw home before Gary Carter scored the tying run.
Did this error happen in the final moments of the game or earlier?
The incident occurred in the bottom of the 10th inning with two outs, while the Mets were trailing by one run and facing elimination. It was not the game-ending play but rather the catalyst that extended the contest.
How did this moment impact Bill Buckner's legacy compared to his overall career?
Despite having a long and successful 21-year Major League career with numerous accolades, Buckner became permanently defined by this single defensive lapse in popular culture. The error overshadowed his achievements as a five-time All-Star and Gold Glove winner for decades.
More in Iconic Matches & Moments
Elsewhere in New York Mets
Spotted an error? Know more?
Reader corrections go straight into our review queue. Suggest an edit · How this site is sourced