1986 World Series Game 6: The Buckner Game

Game 6 of the 1986 World Series is one of the most iconic and dramatic games in baseball history. It was played on October 25, 1986, between the New York Mets and the Boston Red Sox at Shea Stadium. The Red Sox were leading the series 3-2 and were one out away from winning their first World Series since 1918. However, a series of improbable events in the bottom of the tenth inning led to a Mets victory, and they would go on to win Game 7 and the World Series.

The game is best remembered for the error committed by Red Sox first baseman Bill Buckner, who allowed a ground ball hit by Mookie Wilson to roll through his legs, allowing Ray Knight to score the winning run. However, there were many other key moments in the game that contributed to the Mets' victory. Let's dive into the details of this legendary game, exploring the context, key plays, and the enduring impact it has had on baseball.

The Stage is Set

To truly appreciate the magnitude of Game 6, it's essential to understand the backdrop against which it was played. The Boston Red Sox, a team steeped in history and haunted by the "Curse of the Bambino," were on the cusp of breaking a 68-year championship drought. Meanwhile, the New York Mets, a young and scrappy team, were looking to capture their second World Series title. The atmosphere at Shea Stadium was electric, charged with the hopes and anxieties of both fan bases. The Red Sox, led by manager John McNamara, had veterans like Jim Rice and Dwight Evans, while the Mets, under Davey Johnson, boasted stars like Gary Carter, Keith Hernandez, and Darryl Strawberry. The pitching matchup for Game 6 featured Boston's Roger Clemens, a dominant force on the mound, against New York's Bob Ojeda, a solid and experienced left-hander. As the game began, few could have predicted the roller-coaster of emotions and dramatic twists that would unfold over the next few hours, forever etching this game into baseball lore. The tension was palpable, as both teams knew that this game could very well decide the entire series.

The journey to Game 6 was filled with its own narratives. The Red Sox, after a strong regular season, had battled through the American League Championship Series against the California Angels, overcoming a 3-1 deficit to win the pennant. The Mets, on the other hand, had dominated the National League, showcasing a blend of power hitting, speed, and stellar pitching. Their series against the Houston Astros in the NLCS was a classic, with multiple extra-inning games that tested the resilience of both teams. Entering the World Series, the Mets were considered the favorites, but the Red Sox quickly proved their mettle, winning the first two games in New York. The Mets responded by winning two of the next three in Boston, setting the stage for a dramatic return to Shea Stadium. The anticipation was at fever pitch, with fans on both sides eagerly awaiting what promised to be an epic showdown.

Key Moments and Turning Points

The game itself was a seesaw battle, filled with dramatic twists and turns that kept fans on the edge of their seats. The Red Sox jumped out to an early lead, scoring two runs in the first inning off Mets starter Bob Ojeda. However, the Mets responded in the bottom of the inning, with Gary Carter driving in a run to cut the deficit. The Red Sox extended their lead in the seventh, scoring two more runs to make it 3-2. As the game wore on, it felt like the Red Sox were in control, with Roger Clemens pitching effectively and the Mets struggling to mount a sustained attack. But the Mets were a resilient team, and they refused to go down without a fight. In the eighth inning, they managed to tie the game, thanks to a clutch hit by Darryl Strawberry. The score remained tied heading into the late innings, setting the stage for a dramatic finish.

As the tenth inning began, the Red Sox were three outs away from clinching the World Series. Dave Henderson led off with a solo home run off Mets reliever Rick Aguilera, giving the Red Sox a 5-3 lead. Moments later, an error and a sacrifice fly extended their lead to 5-3, seemingly putting the game out of reach. The Red Sox fans in attendance were ecstatic, already celebrating what they believed was a long-awaited championship. But the Mets had other plans. With two outs and nobody on base in the bottom of the tenth, the Mets began their improbable rally. Gary Carter singled, followed by another single by Kevin Mitchell. Then, Ray Knight drove in Carter with a single, making it 5-4. With two outs and runners on first and second, Mookie Wilson came to the plate. What happened next is etched in baseball history.

The Infamous Error

The moment that everyone remembers from Game 6 is, of course, Bill Buckner's error. With Mookie Wilson at the plate, Red Sox closer Bob Stanley threw a wild pitch, allowing Mitchell to advance to second and Knight to third. The count was 2-2 when Wilson hit a slow ground ball to first base. Buckner, who had been struggling defensively, moved to field the ball, but it rolled right through his legs. Knight scored the winning run, and the Mets had pulled off an improbable victory. The image of Buckner's error has been replayed countless times, becoming a symbol of the Red Sox's long history of heartbreak. While the error was certainly a crucial moment, it's important to remember that it was just one of many factors that contributed to the Mets' victory. The error itself wasn't solely responsible for the loss; the Mets had fought hard to get into that position, and they capitalized on the opportunity when it presented itself.

The aftermath of the error was intense. Buckner became the scapegoat for the Red Sox's loss, unfairly bearing the brunt of the blame. He received death threats and was subjected to intense criticism from fans and the media. It's easy to forget that Buckner was a solid player throughout his career, known more for his hitting than his fielding. The narrative surrounding the error often overshadows his accomplishments and contributions to the game. In the years that followed, Buckner struggled to come to terms with what had happened, but he eventually found peace and forgiveness. In 2008, he was invited back to Fenway Park to throw out the first pitch, receiving a standing ovation from the Red Sox fans. It was a moment of redemption and healing, as Buckner was finally embraced by the city of Boston.

The Aftermath and Legacy

The Mets' victory in Game 6 was a turning point in the series. They went on to win Game 7, capturing their second World Series title. The win was a testament to the team's resilience, character, and never-say-die attitude. The 1986 Mets became one of the most beloved teams in franchise history, celebrated for their colorful personalities and exciting style of play. The victory also marked a shift in the balance of power in New York baseball, as the Mets emerged from the shadow of the Yankees.

For the Red Sox, the loss was a devastating blow. The "Curse of the Bambino" continued to haunt them, and it would be another 18 years before they finally broke the curse and won the World Series in 2004. The 1986 World Series remains a painful memory for Red Sox fans, but it also serves as a reminder of the team's resilience and determination. Despite the heartbreak, the Red Sox never gave up, and they eventually achieved their ultimate goal. The story of the 1986 World Series is a reminder that anything can happen in baseball, and that even the most improbable comebacks are possible.

The legacy of Game 6 extends far beyond the baseball field. It has become a cultural touchstone, referenced in movies, television shows, and books. The game is often used as a metaphor for overcoming adversity and never giving up hope. The image of Buckner's error has become iconic, symbolizing the unpredictable nature of life and the importance of perseverance. The game continues to be debated and analyzed by baseball fans, historians, and analysts, each offering their own perspective on what happened and why.

In conclusion, Game 6 of the 1986 World Series was a truly unforgettable event. It was a game filled with drama, excitement, and improbable twists and turns. While Bill Buckner's error is the moment that everyone remembers, it's important to recognize the other key moments and contributions that led to the Mets' victory. The game remains a testament to the power of resilience, the importance of perseverance, and the unpredictable nature of baseball.