1986 World Series Game 7: Box Score And Highlights
The 1986 World Series Game 7 stands as one of the most iconic and dramatic games in baseball history. Played between the New York Mets and the Boston Red Sox, it was a nail-biting contest filled with twists, turns, and unforgettable moments. For those who weren't around to witness it, or those who simply want to relive the excitement, let's dive into the details of this legendary game. Understanding the game requires looking at the historical context to understand the significance this game had, and still has, on baseball fans around the world.
The Boston Red Sox, who hadn't won a World Series since 1918 – a drought famously known as the "Curse of the Bambino" – were leading the series 3-2. After winning Game 6 in dramatic fashion, the Mets forced a decisive Game 7. The energy in Shea Stadium was electric, with fans on the edge of their seats, fully aware they were witnessing history in the making.
The Lineups
Before we dissect the box score, let’s take a look at the starting lineups for both teams:
New York Mets:
- Mookie Wilson: Shortstop
- Wally Backman: Second Base
- Keith Hernandez: First Base
- Gary Carter: Catcher
- Darryl Strawberry: Left Field
- Lenny Dykstra: Center Field
- Ray Knight: Third Base
- Rafael Santana: Right Field
- Ron Darling: Pitcher
Boston Red Sox:
- Wade Boggs: Third Base
- Marty Barrett: Second Base
- Bill Buckner: First Base
- Jim Rice: Left Field
- Dwight Evans: Right Field
- Don Baylor: Designated Hitter
- Tony Armas: Center Field
- Rich Gedman: Catcher
- Spike Owen: Shortstop
- Bruce Hurst: Pitcher
Game Summary
The game started as a pitcher's duel between the Mets’ Ron Darling and the Red Sox’s Bruce Hurst. Hurst, who had already won Game 5, was pitching brilliantly and seemed poised to deliver the Red Sox their long-awaited championship. The Red Sox took an early lead, and added to it, maintaining a 3-0 advantage through much of the game. The Mets, on the other hand, struggled to get their offense going, with Hurst keeping them at bay. This game was more than just a game; it was the culmination of decades of frustration for Red Sox fans. Each pitch, each at-bat, was laden with the weight of history. For the Mets, it was an opportunity to cement their place in baseball lore and bring joy to their passionate fanbase.
However, the momentum began to shift in the later innings. The Mets managed to score a run in the sixth inning, injecting some life into their dugout and the crowd. But the real drama unfolded in the seventh and eighth innings. The Red Sox added two more runs in the top of the seventh, extending their lead to 3-0. With the way Hurst was pitching, it seemed like an insurmountable lead. Then, in the bottom of the eighth, the Mets rallied, scoring three runs to tie the game. The Shea Stadium crowd erupted, sensing that a comeback was within reach.
The game went into extra innings, and the tension was palpable. In the top of the tenth, the Red Sox scored two runs, taking a 5-3 lead and once again putting themselves on the brink of victory. But the Mets, known for their resilience throughout the season, refused to go down without a fight. What followed in the bottom of the tenth is etched in baseball history forever.
The Fateful Tenth Inning
The bottom of the tenth inning is what every baseball fan remembers. With two outs and a runner on second, the Mets were down to their last strike multiple times. Kevin Mitchell singled, bringing the tying run to the plate. After a series of singles and a wild pitch, the score was tied 5-5. Then came the moment that defined the game and the series: Mookie Wilson’s ground ball. The ball trickled slowly towards first base, and Red Sox first baseman Bill Buckner, who had been struggling with his fielding, misplayed the ball, allowing it to go through his legs. Mitchell scored from second, and the Mets won the game and the World Series.
This single play has been endlessly replayed and analyzed. Buckner's error became synonymous with the Red Sox's curse, while Wilson's hit became a symbol of the Mets' never-say-die attitude. The reactions were starkly contrasting: pure elation for Mets fans and crushing disappointment for Red Sox fans.
The Box Score
Here's a detailed look at the box score from that unforgettable game:
Boston Red Sox
| Player | AB | R | H | RBI |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Wade Boggs | 5 | 1 | 2 | 0 |
| Marty Barrett | 5 | 1 | 2 | 0 |
| Bill Buckner | 5 | 0 | 1 | 1 |
| Jim Rice | 5 | 0 | 1 | 0 |
| Dwight Evans | 4 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| Don Baylor | 4 | 0 | 1 | 0 |
| Tony Armas | 4 | 1 | 1 | 1 |
| Rich Gedman | 4 | 1 | 1 | 1 |
| Spike Owen | 4 | 1 | 1 | 0 |
| Totals | 40 | 5 | 10 | 3 |
New York Mets
| Player | AB | R | H | RBI |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mookie Wilson | 5 | 1 | 1 | 1 |
| Wally Backman | 4 | 0 | 1 | 0 |
| Keith Hernandez | 5 | 0 | 1 | 1 |
| Gary Carter | 5 | 1 | 2 | 1 |
| Darryl Strawberry | 4 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| Lenny Dykstra | 4 | 1 | 1 | 0 |
| Ray Knight | 5 | 1 | 2 | 1 |
| Rafael Santana | 4 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| Kevin Mitchell | 1 | 1 | 1 | 0 |
| Totals | 41 | 6 | 9 | 5 |
Pitching
- Boston Red Sox: Bruce Hurst, Calvin Schiraldi, Bob Stanley
- New York Mets: Ron Darling, Sid Fernandez, Rick Aguilera
Winning Pitcher: Rick Aguilera
Losing Pitcher: Bob Stanley
Key Moments and Performances
Several individual performances stood out in this game:
- Bruce Hurst: Pitched brilliantly for the Red Sox, nearly securing the championship before faltering late.
- Ray Knight: Had a strong offensive game, contributing key hits and RBIs for the Mets. Knight was named the World Series MVP for his overall performance in the series.
- Mookie Wilson: Forever remembered for his game-winning hit, which epitomized the Mets' resilience.
The 1986 World Series Game 7 was more than just a baseball game; it was a cultural event. It encapsulated the highs and lows of sports, the agony of defeat, and the thrill of victory. It reinforced the idea that in baseball, as in life, anything is possible until the very last out. This game remains a significant part of baseball's rich tapestry, offering lessons in perseverance, teamwork, and the unpredictable nature of the game. For the Red Sox, it was a symbol of the curse that haunted them for decades. For the Mets, it was a moment of glory that fans still cherish. The game's legacy continues to resonate, reminding us why baseball holds such a special place in the hearts of so many.
The Aftermath
The aftermath of Game 7 was profound for both teams. The Mets celebrated their World Series victory with a jubilant parade through the streets of New York, solidifying their place in the city's sports history. The players became local legends, and the 1986 Mets team is still fondly remembered by fans. Conversely, the Red Sox faced immense scrutiny and disappointment. Bill Buckner, in particular, bore the brunt of the criticism, with his error becoming an unfortunate symbol of the team's struggles. It took another 18 years before the Red Sox finally broke the curse and won the World Series in 2004, exorcising the demons of 1986.
This game also had a broader impact on the sport of baseball. It highlighted the importance of perseverance and the unpredictable nature of the game. It demonstrated that even when a team is down to its last strike, there is always a chance for a comeback. The 1986 World Series Game 7 remains a testament to the drama and excitement that makes baseball so captivating.
In conclusion, the 1986 World Series Game 7 was a historic event filled with unforgettable moments. The box score tells part of the story, but the true essence of the game lies in the drama, the tension, and the emotional rollercoaster that it took fans on. It's a game that will continue to be talked about and remembered for generations to come.
