Mets Rally From Four Down on Opening Day

# The Miracle Mets Complete Their Stunning Opening Day Comeback - April 14, 1987

On April 14, 1987, the New York Mets pulled off one of the most dramatic Opening Day comebacks in baseball history, defeating their division rivals, the Pittsburgh Pirates, 8-4 at Shea Stadium after trailing 4-0 going into the bottom of the eighth inning.

The Mets entered the 1987 season as defending National League champions and one of the most talented teams in baseball, but you wouldn't have known it from the first seven innings of their home opener. Pirates pitcher Bob Kipper had the Mets completely baffled, holding them scoreless while Pittsburgh built what seemed like a comfortable lead. The 47,155 fans bundled up against the chilly April weather were growing increasingly restless as their beloved Mets flailed helplessly at the plate.

Then came the eighth inning.

Darryl Strawberry led off with a single, igniting what would become an unforgettable rally. Kevin McReynolds followed with another single. When Pirate manager Jim Leyland brought in reliever Bob Patterson, the situation only deteriorated for Pittsburgh. Howard Johnson worked a walk to load the bases with nobody out. Rafael Santana then delivered a clutch two-run single to cut the deficit in half at 4-2, sending the crowd into a frenzy.

The Pirates brought in their supposed stopper, Don Robinson, but the Mets were now in full rally mode. After a sacrifice fly made it 4-3, Wally Backman singled to keep the inning alive. Then came the key moment: Mookie Wilson, the speedy center fielder beloved by Mets fans, ripped a two-run double to give New York their first lead of the game at 5-4. The Shea Stadium faithful were now on their feet in delirium.

But the Mets weren't finished. They added three more insurance runs before the inning ended, capping off an astounding eight-run frame that transformed a seemingly certain defeat into a rousing victory.

This comeback was particularly meaningful because it set the tone for what the Mets hoped would be another championship season. Though they would ultimately fall short of returning to the World Series in 1987, this Opening Day thriller exemplified the never-say-die attitude and offensive firepower that had made them one of baseball's most exciting teams.

The game also showcased the depth of that Mets lineup, with contributions coming from throughout the order rather than relying solely on superstars like Strawberry. It was a total team effort that reminded everyone why they were the reigning National League champions.

For Pirates fans, it was a devastating loss that foreshadowed a difficult season ahead. For Mets fans, it was a magical afternoon that they would remember for decades—a perfect encapsulation of the excitement and drama that made 1980s baseball at Shea Stadium so special.

This content was created in partnership and with the help of Artificial Intelligence AI