Keith Hernandez's Walk-Off Single (1986 NLDS Game 5)

Lore & Background

In 1986, the Mets won the division with a record of 108–54, one of the best in National League history. They then won a dramatic NLCS in six games over the Houston Astros. The sixth game of the series lasted sixteen innings, the longest playoff game in history until 2005. The Mets came within one strike of losing the World Series against the Boston Red Sox before a series of hits and defensive miscues ultimately led to an error by Boston's Bill Buckner, which gave the Mets a Game 6 victory. The Mets won their second World Series title in seven games.

In Their Own Story

The rain had just stopped, leaving the Shea Stadium grass glistening under the floodlights. The air smelled of wet dirt and popcorn. Hernandez adjusted his batting gloves, feeling the weight of forty thousand eyes fixed on him. He watched the pitcher wind up, the ball spinning through the humid night air. Time seemed to suspend as he swung, the crack of the bat echoing like a thunderclap. As he rounded first base, the roar of the crowd washed over him, a tidal wave of relief and pure joy.

Reader's Guide

The Mets' 1986 championship season is remembered for the dramatic NLCS victory over the Astros and the World Series comeback against the Red Sox. Key players included Darryl Strawberry, Dwight Gooden, Keith Hernandez, and Gary Carter.

Did You Know?

• The Mets won the 1986 World Series in seven games after being one strike from losing Game 6.
• The 1986 NLCS Game 6 lasted sixteen innings, the longest playoff game in history until 2005.
• The Mets' 108–54 record in 1986 was one of the best in National League history.