Tom Seaver's Final Game at Shea Stadium (September 23, 1983)
The former home of the Mets and Jets, now part of Citi Field's parking lot.
Shea Stadium was a multi-purpose stadium in Flushing Meadows–Corona Park in Queens, New York City. Opened in 1964, it was home to the New York Mets of Major League Baseball (MLB) from 1964 to 2008, as well as the New York Jets of the American Football League (AFL) and the National Football League (NFL) from 1964 to 1983.
- Date
- September 23, 1983
- Location
- Shea Stadium, Queens, New York
- Player
- Tom Seaver (Pitcher)
- Opponent
- Philadelphia Phillies
- Result
- Mets Loss (Final Score: 4-5)
Lore & Background
The stadium was named in honor of William Shea, who was most responsible for bringing National League baseball back to New York after the Dodgers and Giants left for California in 1957. It was demolished in 2009 following the opening of the adjacent Citi Field. The former footprint of Shea Stadium is part of Citi Field's parking lots.
In Their Own Story
The late afternoon sun cast long shadows across the green expanse of Shea Stadium as Seaver walked toward the mound, the weight of history pressing on his shoulders. The air was thick with humidity and the sound of a crowd that refused to be silent. As he wiped the sweat from his brow, he paused to look out at the stands, seeing faces etched with tears and love. He nodded, a silent acknowledgment of the bond they shared, before winding up for a pitch that felt less like an attempt to win a game and more like a final handshake between a hero and his people.
Reader's Guide
Shea Stadium opened on April 17, 1964, with the Pittsburgh Pirates beating the Mets. The stadium hosted its only All-Star Game that first year. After the Jets left following the 1983 season, the stadium was retrofitted to be a baseball-only facility. The locations of Shea's home plate, pitcher's mound, and bases are marked in Citi Field's parking lot.
Did You Know?
- Shea Stadium was originally called 'Flushing Meadow Park Municipal Stadium' before being renamed in honor of William Shea.
- The stadium was built for $28.5 million and took 29 months to construct.
- Shea Stadium was dismantled rather than imploded, in accordance with New York City law.
- The Mets never met the monetary commitment of their 30-year stadium lease, causing them financial problems for years.
Frequently Asked Questions
When was Tom Seaver's final game at Shea Stadium?
This historic farewell occurred on September 23, 1983. It marked the conclusion of his fifteen-year tenure with the franchise before he was traded to Cincinnati.
Who did the Mets play in Seaver's last home game?
The opponent for this emotional matchup was the Philadelphia Phillies. Facing their division rivals added significant weight to the ceremonial occasion.
What was the final score of Tom Seaver's last game with the Mets?
The New York Mets lost the contest with a final score of 4-5. Although the team did not win, the event is remembered for its emotional tribute rather than the result.
Why was this specific game so significant to Met fans?
It served as a cathartic release for a city mourning the departure of their greatest pitcher after a decade and a half. The atmosphere transformed a standard September game into a legendary celebration of Seaver's career.
Where did Tom Seaver pitch his final game for New York?
The event took place at Shea Stadium in Queens, New York. This ballpark was considered the birthplace of Seaver's legend during his time with the club.
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