The Subway Series, a historic interleague rivalry between the New York Yankees and Mets, has seen its fair share of memorable performances and moments over the years. As we celebrate the 30th anniversary of this iconic series, it's time to reflect on the players who have stood out and excelled in this intense competition. Here's a look at the best players from each position, based on their performance in the Subway Series.
Catcher: Mike Piazza, Mets
Mike Piazza dominated the Yankees with an impressive .317 batting average, .398 on-base percentage, and .554 slugging percentage in 38 games. His performance was particularly notable from 1999 to 2002, where he hit .366 with eight home runs in 23 games. A memorable moment came in 2000 when he clubbed a grand slam off Roger Clemens, setting the stage for a chaotic series.
First Base: Mark Teixeira, Yankees
Mark Teixeira had a competitive edge over the Mets, especially in his later career. He hit .264 with 11 home runs and 32 RBIs in 34 games. A standout moment was his three-homer game in April 2015, which kickstarted a bounce-back season. Teixeira's ability to perform consistently against the Mets is a testament to his skill.
Second Base: Jeff McNeil, Mets
Jeff McNeil's .336 batting average in 34 games is remarkable, especially considering he struggled in the Subway Series in 2022. His performance in 2021, where he went 9-for-18, showcases his talent. McNeil's ability to perform under pressure is a key strength.
Third Base: Alex Rodríguez, Yankees
Alex Rodríguez had an impressive performance in the Subway Series, collecting 14 hits in 23 at-bats against Mets pitching in 2005. His seven RBIs in the 2006 series finale, including a grand slam, were pivotal. Rodríguez's on-base percentage gives him the edge over David Wright in this category.
Shortstop: Derek Jeter, Yankees
Derek Jeter's 87 games and 398 plate appearances in the Subway Series are unparalleled. His .364 batting average and 13 home runs are impressive, especially considering his career marks. Jeter's leadoff home run against Bobby Jones in the 2000 World Series is a legendary moment.
Left Field: Curtis Granderson, Mets and Yankees
Curtis Granderson's split-time performance is unique. He played 17 games with the Mets and 15 with the Yankees, with better results in blue and orange. His .955 OPS with the Mets is a stark contrast to his .823 OPS with the Yankees, showcasing his impact on both teams.
Center Field: Bernie Williams, Yankees
Bernie Williams had a metronomic approach against the Mets, with a .313 batting average and .448 on-base percentage in 40 games. His performance in the 2000 World Series, including a home run in Game 5, is a memorable highlight.
Right Field: Aaron Judge, Yankees
Aaron Judge's dominance against the Mets is evident with 14 home runs in 31 games. His performance in the 2021 series, including a game-tying home run on September 11, is a testament to his power. Judge's ability to perform in crucial moments is a key strength.
Designated Hitter: Hideki Matsui, Yankees
Hideki Matsui's performance as a designated hitter is notable, given the Mets' lack of a full-time DH for much of the series' history. His .310 batting average and .586 slugging percentage are impressive, and he topped the OPS list among players with at least 50 plate appearances.
Pinch Hitter: Matt Franco, Mets
Matt Franco's pinch-hitting prowess is evident in his 3-for-10 record with a walk against the Yankees. His game-winning single off Mariano Rivera in 1999 is a legendary moment, showcasing his clutch ability.
Left-Handed Starter: Oliver Pérez, Mets
Oliver Pérez's dominance against the Yankees is remarkable. He won all four of his starts with a 1.50 ERA, pitching at least seven innings in each game. His performance in 2008 helped the Mets split the series and gain momentum.
Right-Handed Starter: A.J. Burnett, Yankees
A.J. Burnett's shutout innings in the Subway Series are impressive. He won all three of his starts with a 1.33 ERA, including a one-hit game with 10 strikeouts. Burnett's ability to pitch seven shutout innings in a single start is a testament to his skill.
Closer: Mariano Rivera, Yankees
Mariano Rivera's dominance against the Mets is well-documented. He has a higher career ERA against only the Angels and has 20 saves in the Subway Series. His bases-loaded walk in 2000 is a memorable moment, showcasing his clutch ability.
