The New York Mets have found an unexpected source of inspiration in their recent resurgence: Grimace, the beloved purple mascot of McDonald's. What initially seemed like a whimsical gesture has turned into a lucky charm for the team, sparking a remarkable turnaround in their season.
A Purple Tribute
To commemorate the improbable connection, the Mets unveiled a special tribute at Citi Field. "It's here and it's perfect! We've installed a commemorative purple seat to recognize Grimace in section 302, row 6, seat 12," the New York Mets announced via Twitter. This purple seat stands as a testament to Grimace's unexpected role in the team's mid-season revival.
A Turning Point
The root of this streak can be traced back to June 12, the day Grimace made his memorable first pitch at Citi Field. At the time, the Mets were languishing with a 29-37 record, and their postseason hopes seemed dim. However, Grimace's appearance coincided with a sudden and striking change of fortune for the team.
Incredible Streak
Following Grimace’s pitch, the Mets embarked on a seven-game win streak that started on June 12. They carried this momentum through the rest of the month, finishing June with an impressive 12-4 run. July proved to be just as fruitful, as the Mets posted a 17-10 record, positioning themselves back into the playoff conversation.
Wild-Card Contenders
This remarkable stretch has brought the Mets to the precipice of postseason play. They are now tied for the final National League wild-card spot, a position that seemed unreachable just weeks earlier. The team has 13 games remaining in the regular season, providing a crucial window to secure their spot in the playoffs.
Homestand Ahead
With a pivotal seven-game homestand starting Monday, the Mets have the opportunity to solidify their standing in front of their home fans. The energy at Citi Field is palpable, bolstered by both the team's recent performance and the quirky, yet effective, inspiration drawn from Grimace.
As the Mets prepare for the final stretch of the season, the purple seat in Section 302 serves as a constant reminder of their improbable catalyst. Whether it's a little bit of luck or a much-needed morale boost, there's no denying that Grimace's influence has played a part in the Mets' eye-catching revival.