G-Fafif

The good patch is on the WRIGHT 5 jerseys. Mr. Met is wearing the bad patch. Just when I thought the patch was a winter story, when I saw it in person, it just looked...bad.

Outstanding stuff. In 1966, Mets were scheduled to open the season at Crosley Field. Got rained out of all three games. Foreboding precedent?

I believe that someday Seawolf will punch that arrogant Brian Brueny at New Yankee Stadium on his fat nose.

="themetfairy":3b9jp3z9]The pretzels were actually ready? And hot?[/quote:3b9jp3z9] An across-the-board success. The ones sold in the stands were longer, kind of compressed. Very tempting for a second go-round. The one I had was from an unbusy stand. Smaller than the Shea variety but also edible. SteveJRogers Apr 04 2009 12:14 PM Didn't feel "into" taking too many shots last night, most due to the crowd and weather. Ah well, did take some nice shots There used to be a ballpark here: Arthur Ashe Stadium as you've never seen it before! Speaking of shots the paying customer really couldn't get at Shea. Directly behind the Right Fielder! The overhang in right You know, this really IS a crazy setup with the bullpens I still want to know where, and when I can update this pic! SteveJRogers Apr 04 2009 12:22 PM Retired numbers View from the Promenade metsguyinmichigan Apr 04 2009 12:38 PM Nice shots, Steve! Kong76 Apr 04 2009 12:43 PM My boy Jeter has a bunch of these. (the devil made me post it) metirish Apr 04 2009 12:45 PM The bullpens do look odd even by todays standards which themselves seem odd to me. They had a shot last night and the visitors bullpen is only slightly higher than the home bullpen in front of it . The Boston players looked like they were in holding pens not unlike those you would see in Gitmo staring out through the wire mesh separating the bullpens. Fman99 Apr 04 2009 01:12 PM ="SteveJRogers"]Retired numbers Nice pics Steve. I like seeing that the "Shea" baseball is carried over to the new park. G -- does this mean a revision to the FAFIF T-shirt is in the works? OlerudOwned Apr 04 2009 01:13 PM Did they dump the pinstripes on the retired numbers, or are they just too faint to be seen in those pictures? If we ever get a player with the last name Shea, would he have to change it? SteveJRogers Apr 04 2009 01:20 PM ="OlerudOwned":1xerg8vh]Did they dump the pinstripes on the retired numbers, or are they just too faint to be seen in those pictures? If we ever get a player with the last name Shea, would he have to change it?[/quote:1xerg8vh] Faint, and that was taken from the opposite side of the stadium with a zoom lenses that is quite basic. A Boy Named Seo Apr 04 2009 01:58 PM Nice pix, Steve. apmorris Apr 04 2009 02:18 PM Thanks for the pics! risen. G-Fafif Apr 04 2009 02:59 PM First impressions appraisal here[/url:gkvynbco]. OlerudOwned Apr 04 2009 05:20 PM ="SteveJRogers":139p9rfj]="OlerudOwned":139p9rfj]Did they dump the pinstripes on the retired numbers, or are they just too faint to be seen in those pictures? If we ever get a player with the last name Shea, would he have to change it?[/quote:139p9rfj] Faint, and that was taken from the opposite side of the stadium with a zoom lenses that is quite basic.[/quote:139p9rfj] Good to know, thanks. SteveJRogers Apr 04 2009 05:32 PM FWIW, they sold the ones that hung in Shea Stadium as part of the MeiGrey auction. Kind of strange that they made complete new ones that look EXACTLY like the ones that has been at Shea since 1998! When the Mets added the black shadowdrops to the uniforms, the black was added to the retired numbers. One would think, new place, eh lets have a new design for the retired number signage. OlerudOwned Apr 04 2009 06:04 PM Oh, dang, are there still dropshadows on these too, then? Retired numbers should be in the style they wore during their careers, not whatever the club wears now. SteveJRogers Apr 04 2009 06:07 PM ="OlerudOwned":255306uu]Oh, dang, are there still dropshadows on these too, then? Retired numbers should be in the style they wore during their careers, not whatever the club wears now.[/quote:255306uu] ITA. It should be the way it is in my avatar. metsmarathon Apr 04 2009 09:22 PM LeiterWagnerFasterStrongr Apr 04 2009 11:28 PM Was in 105-- field-level, just foul of the RF pole-- today. A little brain-scattered right now, but a few impressions: -- The tacos are indeed all that and several cups of fresh salsa (add the "open kitchen" thing being prominently featured in our ballpark to the miles-long list of pleasantly disorienting new CitiFeatures). You'll want the 9.75 sampler thingy. -- Times to hit Shake Shack: Well before gametime, or midgame. Any other time during a weekend game seems like it'll lose you an inning or two. (Those who've never been to Madison Square Park: You do need to have one; whatever G-d you worship, he/she/it smiles on these beef patties.) -- Hidden bonus souvenir: Mets Store bags. Handsome, sturdy reusables... perfect for a run to the market for Nathan's or J.R. Watkins. -- The ushers/greeters are indeed disarmingly polite... if not quite ready for primetime (got 1-2 iffy answers in response to "where's that thing again"-type queries). metsmarathon Apr 05 2009 03:12 PM i took some pictures of my own at citi... a beautiful day for a ball game. fans walking on the fanwalk. my sneakers look filthy! the new apple is big and shiny. it might not get much use this year... i'm probably too old to play here. i need to get me some kids... the retired numbers lets play ball! i love this crazy nook thing. i can't wait to see jose rattle a few balls around in there. this bridge is cool too. here it is during the rain delay. this shot, of the scoreboard, is one of my favoriter pictures that i took that day. the wait at the catch of the day was worth it for the shrimp po'boy. yum! frankie enters the game Edgy DC Apr 05 2009 03:34 PM Looks like they went seriously overboard with the wall height changes. LeiterWagnerFasterStrongr Apr 05 2009 03:47 PM ="Edgy DC":3bfi37b3]Looks like they went seriously overboard with the wall height changes.[/quote:3bfi37b3] Tatis smacked the top of the wall twice on balls that would've been out in something like 90 percent of the majors' parks. Lowrie's HR was hit a ton, and still skin-of-the-teethed it out in left-center. The difficulties of making the playoffs aside, it'll still be REAL tough to squeeze a righty-hitting MVP offensive player out of this joint. Benjamin Grimm Apr 05 2009 03:53 PM Well, it's not like Shea had a whole bunch of them either. Maybe instead we'll get an extra Cy Young or two. themetfairy Apr 05 2009 03:55 PM Nice shots marathon MK and I were there today for the batting practice. This is MK on the LIRR platform - We figured we would visit the Jackie Robinson Rotunda today so that we won't have to fight the crowds in there during the season. The obligatory Shake Shack visit. Yes I'm still on Weight Watchers, but MK let me have a couple of bites of his burger and some sips of his shake. Now my curiosity has been satisfied, at a fraction of the calorie count. This garbage can in the Fan Fest area amused me - The remains of the Shea. MK said that Shea will live on forever in the souls and homes of Mets fans everywhere. Speaking of Shea, we had the chance to visit the old Home Run Apple. I don't care how corny it is - I love that thing! We enjoyed the visit - it was a good opportunity for us to acclimate ourselves to the new digs. metsguyinmichigan Apr 05 2009 04:00 PM Beautiful! And the stadium shots are nice, too! themetfairy Apr 05 2009 04:07 PM LOL - thanks MFS62 Apr 05 2009 04:53 PM Memo to staff: When the Yanks come to play the Mets this year, protect those garbage cans from Paul O'Neill. He'd probably try to kick them, thinking they're a water cooler. Later metsmarathon Apr 05 2009 05:39 PM ="Edgy DC":3so2bhzo]Looks like they went seriously overboard with the wall height changes.[/quote:3so2bhzo] the one too many is the little bit in straight away center feild that jumps back to 16' or so at the base of the apple. i mean, jeez, its hard enough to hit it there already! soupcan Apr 05 2009 07:14 PM We went on Saturday. The place is really great. It is definitely a bit disconcerting to see the Mets in their home whites in a completely different ballpark. Realizing that this new place with the high outfield fences, enclosed centerfield and green seats is the new home is odd. The food as has been said is so much better than I'm used to having while watching a Mets game. Shake Shack burgers are 2 die 4. There is a place sort of near us in Bethel. CT called The Sycamore which has burgers very similar. I try to get to there a few times a year simply for their 'Dagwood'. No need to do that anymore since I'll be getting my burger fix at good ole City Field (see what I did there?). The game was sold out but there were empty seats everywhere because everyone was walking around checkin' out the new digs. Made it hard to walk around even with the wide concourses. I'm guessing it will be about mid-season before that calms down. The only criticisms I had is that concourse celings are low and they could be lit better. Other than that, its really, really nice. I agree that the outfield walls are high but I think eventually we will all get used to it and adopt the mantra that The City is indeed a pitcher-friendly park and take some pride in that. Edgy DC Apr 05 2009 07:59 PM ="soupcan"] That restaurant makes me feel hostile. I guess I just have to tell myself that those swells are paying for Wright's next extension. But man. soupcan Apr 06 2009 06:30 AM ="Edgy DC"]That restaurant makes me feel hostile. I guess I just have to tell myself that those swells are paying for Wright's next extension. But man. Not just a 'restaurant' it's a 'club'. The Acela Club. And if that doesn't tighten your colon even more - its an exclusive club, open only to holders of tickets in certain areas of the park. As a matter of fact that's another thing about the park that I didn't particularly care for - there are several 'clubs' within the place that cater to only ticketholders of certain sections. Granted - Everyone who has a tcket has a club that will accomodate them (I think) - whether it be on the field level or the Promenade (upper deck) level, but still. Walking by the club entrances and knowing that you are not allowed access to that particular one is a bit of a downer. And I don't know this for sure but I'd guess that the Promenade level club somehow isn't as nice as the the field-level (Ebbets Club maybe?) club. metsmarathon Apr 06 2009 07:07 AM yeah, i always used to like how when i had upper deck seats at shea, i could always come down to the field level any time i wanted and just mill around down there. oh, wait... soupcan Apr 06 2009 07:38 AM No, that's nice that you can do that - and I know that the Diamond Club was only open to ceratin ticketholders as well. My point was more that its more obvious that certain ticketholdres aren't permitted in certain places is all. At least it was more obvious to me. metirish Apr 06 2009 07:44 AM When Burkhardt was in The Acela Club I think Saturday he mentioned that you needed reservations to get in. soupcan Apr 06 2009 08:01 AM ="metirish":10v2x56u]When Burkhardt was in The Acela Club I think Saturday he mentioned that you needed reservations to get in.[/quote:10v2x56u] But even if you have reservations, your ticket has to say 'Admit One To Acela Club' John Cougar Lunchbucket Apr 06 2009 08:06 AM Hey Soup, I talked to the restaurateur who is opening the place and came away with the impression that although policy errs on the safe side especially at launching time, if you asked the right people nicely they'd probably accommodate you. soupcan Apr 06 2009 08:08 AM Well then - there you go. seawolf17 Apr 06 2009 08:18 AM We were there for the workout yesterday. I enjoyed it; I think I'm over Shea. Two negatives, I thought -- the navigation was difficult (although I'm sure that'll go away once I'm familiar with the place), and it was way, way too fucking loud. Seemed like everything and everyone was on full volume. Maybe that'll be better in game situations, where the music isn't going to be blasting the whole time, but it was a major turnoff yesterday. It took me a full hour to relax and enjoy myself, because I spent so much time shouting to Ms. Wolf and MiniWolf to be heard. A few photeaux. First, MiniWolf mourns the loss of Shea: Taking his cuts at Kiddie Field: Playing the outfield, like his dad. Notice his dad in centerfield, talking with a couple of other Poolers who were on the scene: metirish Apr 06 2009 08:20 AM ="soupcan":e6xl82n7]="metirish":e6xl82n7]When Burkhardt was in The Acela Club I think Saturday he mentioned that you needed reservations to get in.[/quote:e6xl82n7] But even if you have reservations, your ticket has to say 'Admit One To Acela Club'[/quote:e6xl82n7] I suppose if I called to make a reservation they would ask if I had the ticket, but in any time especially these tough times that doesn't seem like a smart business plan for the owner of the restaurant. soupcan Apr 06 2009 08:21 AM Damn that kid grew up fast. I totally agree about the noise, although the sound system is MUCH better than it was at Shea. Edgy DC Apr 06 2009 08:25 AM Edited 3 time(s), most recently on Apr 06 2009 08:26 AM wolf: So I had this great house until the neighbors put in this damn whiffleball monstrosity. And now soupcan says... KC: Yeah, blahblahblah. Get off the field. There's a game goin' on. HahnSolo Apr 06 2009 08:25 AM One thing I don't "get" from the place is the bridge motif. I can't understand why it was so important to do it. I tried to explain it to my wife and she was like, "I totally don't see NYC bridges." Seawolf, how does the wiffle ball thing work? Is it free? A wait your turn thing? My son is already angling to hit that first when we go next week. Edgy DC Apr 06 2009 08:28 AM It would make more sense if it was a suspension bridge. batmagadanleadoff Apr 06 2009 08:31 AM To those who already went to Citi Field for any of the exhibition games, what were the views like from your seats? Is it really true that every seat is a good one? seawolf17 Apr 06 2009 08:38 AM ="batmagadanleadoff":1tq93prv]To those who already went to Citi Field for any of the exhibition games, what were the views like from your seats? Is it really true that every seat is a good one?[/quote:1tq93prv] We only really "sat" for any length of time in the 330s, out in left field, second tier up, just to the home-plate side of the glass-windowed restaurant. I thought the view was great, but you completely lose the left-field corner, right under you. Didn't bother me too much, because there were plenty of places at Shea where you'd lose a corner also. ="HahnSolo":1tq93prv]One thing I don't "get" from the place is the bridge motif. I can't understand why it was so important to do it. I tried to explain it to my wife and she was like, "I totally don't see NYC bridges." Seawolf, how does the wiffle ball thing work? Is it free? A wait your turn thing? My son is already angling to hit that first when we go next week.[/quote:1tq93prv] I agree on the bridge thing. I think if you're going to go bridge, you have to go Brooklyn Bridge, or a suspension bridge -- something that's really distinct. Or, say, the BRIDGE THAT'S IN THE TEAM'S LOGO. Call me crazy, but doing the logo bridge in right-center field would have kicked ass. The wiffle ball thing is free, but the line was monstrous yesterday. I don't put too much credence into yesterday's lines, because the majority of folks were on the concourse, not at their seats. Probably better during a regular game, I'd think. For yesterday, the line snaked around Kiddie Field, and when you got up there, you (the kid) went into left field, then center, then right, then you got your AB, and you got anywhere between three and six swings, depending on if you were a toddler who was just up there hacking (six) or a teenager who was really to big for it (three), then you got to run the bases. So you got four "at-bats" in total to run around. MiniWolf was beyond thrilled. soupcan Apr 06 2009 08:47 AM ="HahnSolo":9zu9g7v4]One thing I don't "get" from the place is the bridge motif. I can't understand why it was so important to do it. I tried to explain it to my wife and she was like, "I totally don't see NYC bridges." [/quote:9zu9g7v4] The boroughs are all connected by bridges. Its not a stretch. ="Edgy DC":9zu9g7v4]It would make more sense if it was a suspension bridge.[/quote:9zu9g7v4] Agreed. metirish Apr 06 2009 09:07 AM I have a silly question. Are these restaurants open on off days and days the Mets are on the road? themetfairy Apr 06 2009 10:05 AM batmag - I was in the Promenade, and the view from my seat was nice. Analogous to my old Mezz seats, I think. I'll know for sure once the season starts and I'm actually focusing on a game or two. Agreed about the noise level, especially when Chris Carlin was yelling into the mike. I never thought much of him before, but after yesterday I hat him. SteveJRogers Apr 06 2009 10:24 AM ="soupcan":3ko0a4i5]Granted - Everyone who has a tcket has a club that will accomodate them (I think) - whether it be on the field level or the Promenade (upper deck) level, but still. Walking by the club entrances and knowing that you are not allowed access to that particular one is a bit of a downer. And I don't know this for sure but I'd guess that the Promenade level club somehow isn't as nice as the the field-level (Ebbets Club maybe?) club.[/quote:3ko0a4i5] Actually, you have to pay a bit extra for the club pass. Don't know how much more, but from what I gathered, it was substantial. Gwreck Apr 07 2009 09:24 AM The access to the various clubs is based on your seats. If you're seated in the "Promenade Club" seats, you get access to the Promenade Club. If you're in the "Ebbets Club" seats, you get access to the Ebbets Club. If you're in the "Delta Club" seats, you get access to the Delta Club. If you're in the "Caesar's Club" seats, you get access to the Caesar's Club. The restaurant in left field, the "Acela Club," is open to Metropolitan Box, Field Box, Ebbets Club Gold, and Delta Club Platinum and Gold ticket holders. holychicken Apr 07 2009 09:30 AM ="batmagadanleadoff":357bumo9]To those who already went to Citi Field for any of the exhibition games, what were the views like from your seats? Is it really true that every seat is a good one?[/quote:357bumo9] My experience is that all the seats I saw (and I went around to most parts of the stadium) felt very close to the infield and had a good view of the infield. However, the draw back to this is a lot of the seats outside the infield lose a bit of a corner of the outfield AND if you are in a covered seat, you lose views upward. Like sitting in the Mezz in Shea, you really only can see where a pop fly is going by watching the fielders. But, overall, the view of the field is MUCH better, especially for the type of seats I buy. Farmer Ted Apr 07 2009 10:27 AM There's an Acela Club? As in the amtrak train? Let me get this straight. Bankrupt bank has naming rights the stadium and a money-bleeding rail line sponsors the A-list dining area? LeiterWagnerFasterStrongr Apr 07 2009 02:04 PM ="Farmer Ted":1wt09uid]There's an Acela Club? As in the amtrak train? Let me get this straight. Bankrupt bank has naming rights the stadium and a money-bleeding rail line sponsors the A-list dining area?[/quote:1wt09uid] That's nothing... wait until you hear who's sponsoring the "Fair and Balanced" no-flush urinals. themetfairy Apr 07 2009 05:46 PM We stopped by today en route to Long Island. D-Dad checked out tailgating spots, and we all visited our brick. Kong76 Apr 07 2009 06:24 PM I've been hesitant to whine here about it, but my front row promenade seats kinda suck. The railing sucks and the staircase with glass around it that is right in the same place as home plate sucks. It will suck even more when there are people on it all game. I called to try and move and the only thing they'd give me was like the next to last section of the outfield in row 13 and was reminded that upgrading year after year from there would be harder than from my crappy seats prolly. It's only a Sunday plan, and I can shift around and carpetbag, and watch from other areas, and the tickets aren't all that expensive ... but I feel gypped especially since on a whole the rest of the place is just so damn nice. seawolf17 Apr 07 2009 06:31 PM Hey, nothing wrong with bitching about it. Ultimately, though, you're probably screwed, because if you want to give up those seats, there are probably plenty of folks who would take them from you next year. The Mets -- and the Yankees -- knew they had us all over a barrel with these stadia; if we wanted to get in, we'd have to pay the price. I hate to say that Mike Francesa is right, but in this case, he is; the only recourse we have is with our wallets. If we think ticket prices are too high, or the views suck... then we don't buy the tickets. (They've priced me out, and that's fine; maybe we go to a game, but more likely we don't.) Kong76 Apr 07 2009 07:00 PM I'm more hesitant to whine about it more because I posted how excited I was to be in row one. I sat in row six with a poster in the same section and those seats are fine. They weren't the best available when I got mine days before they could log on and renew their Sunday plan if theirs are better. Who's Mike Francessa, where does he post? As for high ticket prices, my tickets are much cheaper this year than last and location is fine ... if I wasn't in row one. MFS62 Apr 07 2009 07:12 PM ="Kong76":3ru6ijum]I'm more hesitant to whine about it more because I posted how excited I was to be in row one. I sat in row six with a poster in the same section and those seats are fine. They weren't the best available when I got mine days before they could log on and renew their Sunday plan if theirs are better. Who's Mike Francessa, where does he post? As for high ticket prices, my tickets are much cheaper this year than last and location is fine ... if I wasn't in row one.[/quote:3ru6ijum] Well, if he had them, I'm sure Bob Uecker would exchange yours for his in the very last row. Later Rockin' Doc Apr 07 2009 07:39 PM KC, thanks for the excuse to post a classic beer commercial. MFS62, thanks for the perfect lead in. MFS62 Apr 07 2009 07:55 PM Doc, All I see is a big white rectangle. Later themetfairy Apr 07 2009 07:58 PM I see the Uecker ad, Doc. I just showed it to MK - he had never seen it before. Thanks. Rockin' Doc Apr 08 2009 05:23 AM MFS62 -"Doc, All I see is a big white rectangle." You wouldn't believe how many times I've heard that line before. Kong76 Apr 08 2009 05:38 AM Close your eyes and walk slowly towards the white rectangle.

Nice place to visit. And I just might want to live there. In the fan sense. Very odd feeling disoriented in the home park of the Mets. Not a quality issue, just a strangeness issue. Yes, very much a CBP/NP vibe, but you forget that after a bit because this isn't a jaunt down the Turnpike or Amtrak. This is the new house. The rain delay was a good thing. It gave Jason and me an excuse to explore. And it's a fun place for exploration. More nooks and crannies on every level than in the right field corner. I liked the ins and outs of the concourses more than the field itself, though that will grow on me. There was a moment there in the, uh, seventh (who was paying attention?) when we brought home a run on a walk and we were going nuts and the place was maybe 40% full and a couple of friends found us and...at that moment, it felt like home. The food is wonderful. Even the crappy food is wonderful. The pretzels were hot and not made of shoe. The hot dogs weren't dug up from under a dumpster. The new food kicked ass. Chicken quesadillas? Daruma? Both on the mark. Carvel a little stiff, but it's April 3. I was more impressed that the Carvel cashier was friendly and able to make change without me coming behind the counter as was the case in past seasons. Wish we could see more of the world from our seats, but when you get up and wander you feel closer to the community and the city. From one end of the stadium (or park or field) you can almost reach out and touch the U-Haul sign. You have a great angle on the Unisphere. The Empire State Building seems nearby, not just from the skyline logo. But I don't like the feeling of being enveloped all that much. Shea of course looms in the consciousness, as in "they do this here so well -- remember how they used to?" It's the way you'd speak of that silly cat who missed the box or that car that ka-chunked along. The annoyances are now fond memories. Shea doesn't ascend to sainthood. Its flaws stand out by comparison, but its flaws are our history now. The Dodger thing is only in spots. I could do without the Ebbets Club if there's not going to be a Polo Lounge, but ah, who cares really? More Mets would be nice, not that there's none. I still have to figure out where to look at scoreboards and stuff. I have no idea how this will all translate in the regular season. It was just a good feeling to find my way in. Then I was a stranger. When we exited the Rotunda at the end of the night, it felt kind of familiar. I'm a little scattered right now, but I liked it. So will you.

Ladies and gentlemen, your 1997 World Champion Florida Marlins!

I've looked up the others and see one of my '72 answers that I erased (in favor of Lute Barnes) and my instinctual '77 guess (but I thought he was here more than one year) were correct. 2002 I knew I was drawing a blank on. 1965 showed up in a book I read recently. 1968 we could have sat from here to the next ballpark and I wouldn't have gotten it.

1972 EDIT: Lute Barnes

1980: Claudell Washington

1990 Mike Marshall

Bressoud is a GREAT guess/answer. He owned the SS HR record forever.

1972 EDIT Joe Nolan?

Leon "Motor" Brown was actually my first guess and I changed it to Pepe. 1996: Alvaro Espinoza?

1966 Charley Smith?

1992 Dick Schofield

1975: Gene Clines

1974: Rich Puig

2003: Tony Clark

1976: Leon Brown?

1966: Ken Boyer 1973: Rich Chiles 1978: Tom Grieve 1989: Juan Samuel 1998: Tony Phillips

1971 Bob Aspromonte 1976 EDIT: Pepe Mangual 1981 Mike Cubbage 1982 Tom Veryzer 1983 Mark Bradley 1985 Tom Paciorek 1987 Al Pedrique

They still fail to list more than two Mets world championships.

="metsguyinmichigan":1clc7wsc]Just noticed the writing on the tarp. What the heck is that? I'm assuming it's a giant ad. What does it say?[/quote:1clc7wsc] Sports SPDR or something to that effect. They're the sponsor of Mets rain delays. No, I'm not kidding. Gwreck Apr 02 2009 09:49 AM ="batmagadanleadoff":kzvkayl1]="Gwreck":kzvkayl1]This guy wasn't a paying customer, accordingly the rules are different.[/quote:kzvkayl1] Are they? If the student was also considered to be a Met employee at that moment, then I could see the justification. But what about my Roger Angell hypothetical? And what about the complimentary guest tickets that the visiting team is allotted for each game? Does this mean that Brad Lidge's kid can't wear a Phillie cap at Citi Field?[/quote:kzvkayl1] I really think the rules *are* different for the media. If Roger Angell showed up wearing a Phillies hat in the pressbox, I'd be fine with the Mets asking him to remove the hat or leave. Nymr83 Apr 02 2009 09:56 AM ="Gwreck":2wlwkjea]="batmagadanleadoff":2wlwkjea]="Gwreck":2wlwkjea]This guy wasn't a paying customer, accordingly the rules are different.[/quote:2wlwkjea] Are they? If the student was also considered to be a Met employee at that moment, then I could see the justification. But what about my Roger Angell hypothetical? And what about the complimentary guest tickets that the visiting team is allotted for each game? Does this mean that Brad Lidge's kid can't wear a Phillie cap at Citi Field?[/quote:2wlwkjea] I really think the rules *are* different for the media. If Roger Angell showed up wearing a Phillies hat in the pressbox, I'd be fine with the Mets asking him to remove the hat or leave.[/quote:2wlwkjea] as would i. but lets be clear that theres still no evidence that the METS told or asked this kid to do anything. so far it looks like it was all someone from st johns batmagadanleadoff Apr 02 2009 10:00 AM ="Nymr83":f5xc7li3]as would i. but lets be clear that theres still no evidence that the METS told or asked this kid to do anything. so far it looks like it was all someone from st johns[/quote:f5xc7li3] Understood. I assume that we're all posting hypothetically -- under the premise that we don't know for sure if and why the student was ejected. By the way, I dislike the idea that the Mets could impose a dress code in the press box, although they have the right to, if that's their choice. Otherwise, the slope really has slipped; does this mean that the Phillies broadcasters (e.g. Harry Kalas) can't wear Phillie gear? Edgy DC Apr 02 2009 10:08 AM You know, the Warriors just wanted to walk peacefully through the Orphans' territory, but the Orphans insisted they remove their colors. And we know how that turned out. Centerfield Apr 02 2009 10:43 AM Since we're all up on a pedestal in this thread: The Mets should not limit any clothing, accessories etc. unless it is vulgar, obscene, or distasteful in some way. Other teams' apparel obviously does not fit into this category. I wouldn't want to see the Mets make any such limitations in the press box or in the stands. The obvious exception is employees of the organization, who should wear whatever the fuck the Mets tell them to wear. As such, St. John's, or any other employer, be it the Philly newspapers or otherwise, has every right, and should, if they feel it is necessary, to restrict the apparel of any of their employees during company time. That means if your boss tells you to take off the Phillies jacket, take off the Phillies jacket. If your boss gives you a jacket to wear, put the damn thing on. Turning our attention to loser-Fonzie-wannabe-Philly-Fan...he was not removed from CitiField for his apparel. He was given a choice to follow orders, or quit, from his boss. He chose to quit. The only reason he had to leave was because his job was his basis for being at the game. If he had then gone outside and bought a ticket, he could have come back inside and worn his Phillies jacket and held up a sign that said "St. John's = Big Brother" if he so chose. He did not. So fuck him. Rockin' Doc Apr 02 2009 11:14 AM CF - "The Mets should not limit any clothing, accessories etc. unless it is vulgar, obscene, or distasteful in some way. Other teams' apparel obviously does not fit into this category...." I don't know CF, I find a Yankee cap to be rather distasteful. metsguyinmichigan Apr 02 2009 11:21 AM No employer or team should prevent him from wearing the jacket, but that doesn't mean he should wear it. It's like cheering in the press box. If I stood in there cheering for the Mets, no one would say, "Hey, we're not supposed to cheer up here." But it would be like the giant douchebag signal shining brightly in the Gothom City sky. There would be plenty of eye-rolling and snide remarks, because sportswriters like the "holier than thou" thing. Suprisingly, the opposite of cheer-leading is openly accepted. You could sit there all day saying "Delgado is a bum" and the writers would likely praise your for your knowledge. The exception is questioning St. Derek's range or intangibles. That will get you booted. LeiterWagnerFasterStrongr Apr 02 2009 11:24 AM It doesn't seem plausible that Mets personnel would have gotten so upset about this when at least several dozen folks in Yank gear-- and probably a handful more in Phil-analia-- were also milling about (having seen a bunch of these vinegary fellows in fan photos). It seems a likelier story that department-head guy was a little antsy about St. John's staff provoking adverse reactions-- even if mild-- on a high-visibility day in a facility that wasn't theirs, and did a bad job of standing his ground when pressed by a smartass ("I'll wear it under the Phils jacket-- what's the problem? No, I haven't eaten shit today-- why do you ask?"). ="batmagadanleadoff"]Oh ... and by the way ... shouldn't the thread title be A Matter of Ph**king Principle? Done and done. (Had been thinking of the Utley quote.) metirish Apr 02 2009 12:40 PM How do we explain this to the Iraqis ? Number 6 Apr 02 2009 09:08 PM To me, there are two things we're talking about here. One is the right of this guy's employer, or the Mets, to dictate what he can and can't wear, and the phan's responsibility to comply. I think CF covered this well; they have a right to tell the guy to take his jacket off. He disagreed, and maybe lost some of the high ground with the passive-aggressive "under the jacket" dickishness, but ultimately he took a stand, no matter how dubious it was, and accepted the consequences. Fine. To me, the more important point is less the right of his employer/the Mets to dictate his dress, but whether they should exercise that right. Let's assume, for the moment, that the order did come from the Mets and not St. John's, and that the phan was as otherwise respectful as he makes himself out to be. Is there anyone who believes that, while retaining the right to do so, the Mets should tell him to take the jacket off? Are Met fans really so childish that a Phillies jacket is an unbearable affront? Would we be OK with the Mets thinking we are? Personally, it really chafes me when I see people wearing Yankees, Braves or Phillies gear to games when that team isn't in the park. And while I don't think it's appropriate for the Mets or anyone else to restrict their right to wear that gear, I am very comfortable with my personal right to judge them. This kid's a dick, but let him broadcast that fact in peace. Nymr83 Apr 03 2009 06:16 AM No, I don't think the Mets should exercise that right with regard to an employee of a college baseball team playing at their stadium. but i also dont think they did exercise that right. batmagadanleadoff Apr 03 2009 06:52 AM ="Nymr83"]No, I don't think the Mets should exercise that right with regard to an employee of a college baseball team playing at their stadium. but i also dont think they did exercise that right. Me neither. This matter was probably purely between the student and the university. I'd also bet that the student wasn't being entirely objective when he posted his account, and probably shaded the story somewhat so as to favor him. I don't think that the Mets ever enforced any kind of dress code at Shea concerning opposing teams gear -- in the press box or anywhere else. I assume that nothing will change at Citi Field. Ashie62 Apr 03 2009 09:45 AM Elaine..You cannot wear the Oriloles hat in mr. Steinbrenner's box!

="John Cougar Lunchbucket"]Now, if Green wanted to change his number I got no problem with that, but he ought to concoct some story about his Mom's birthday or something. "My mom was born on April 8 -- same as Gary Carter. I was just goofing around about Heilman. I have great respect for Aaron and would love to accomplish as much in my career as he has in his. But really this is about my mom -- and Gary Carter." Free of charge, Sean.

="Benjamin Grimm":1rdpk7hv][/quote:1rdpk7hv] The less one has to see of the MFYs, the better. Benjamin Grimm Apr 02 2009 09:19 AM I guess some Yankee fans may prefer those seats because they won't be able to see Alex Rodriguez when he's playing third base. metsguyinmichigan Apr 02 2009 09:26 AM Yup. It's a "True Yankee Filter." You pay more for that. seawolf17 Apr 02 2009 12:08 PM ="metirish":uoy3pvzx]I'm not an architect , hell I'm not even a doctor but I don't know why these new stadiums have any such seating like above.[/quote:uoy3pvzx] I have to say I agree. They made a big fucking deal about having less seats, and angling them toward home plate, and so on... and you have this obstructed-view bullshit? Eff that. seawolf17 Apr 02 2009 08:02 PM A 76.3% increase?!?! Eff you, Yankees. You too, Johnny Damon. http://sports.espn.go.com/mlb/news/story?id=4036916 metirish Apr 02 2009 08:08 PM Wankers - $41.40 to $72.97 - suckers Rockin' Doc Apr 02 2009 08:08 PM Damon should stick to doing Gieco commercials. seawolf17 Apr 02 2009 08:48 PM ="Rockin' Doc":lhs13t5x]Damon should stick to doing Gieco commercials.[/quote:lhs13t5x] Seriously. That pissed me off. "I mean, really, fuck the little guy. I make $13 million a year, guaranteed. So I don't care if they can't afford tickets; I wipe my ass with $1,000 bills." Rockin' Doc Apr 03 2009 04:52 AM A 76.3% increase in the cost of the average ticket for a seat at Yankee Stadium is once again, proof positive that it sucks to be a Yankees fan. Johnny Damon, it seems safe to conclude, is not exactly a thinking man. His comments are insensitive and out of touch with the day to day struggles of the common working man or woman. Benjamin Grimm Apr 03 2009 05:51 AM ="Johnny Damon":1g3apd5t]"It's tough. New York can withstand it," he said. "Coming to this plush building, I think it's definitely something that people want to see. I mean, those are great seats. It's going to be tough for a family to afford but, you know, but we'll let the people upstairs worry about that."[/quote:1g3apd5t] Clearly, the people upstairs don't give a damn either. Nymr83 Apr 03 2009 06:18 AM In the post this morning Sherman says bad things about the New Yankee stadium while Kevin Kernan has some faint praise for Citi Field (though more dumping on Shea) soupcan Apr 03 2009 07:00 AM Times has its architectural reviews of both stadia today... ] April 3, 2009 Architecture Review Two New Baseball Palaces, One Stoic, One Scrappy By NICOLAI OUROUSSOFF American stadium design has been stuck in a nostalgic funk, with sports franchises recycling the same old images year after year. Still, if you have to go with a retro look, New York City could have done worse than the new Yankee Stadium and Citi Field. Both were designed by Populous (formerly known as HOK Sport Venue Event) and are major upgrades over the stadiums they replaced, which had been looking more and more dilapidated over the years. Both should be fine places to spend a few hours watching a game. What�s more, each stadium subtly reflects the character of the franchises that built them. Yankee Stadium is the kind of stoic, self-conscious monument to history that befits the most successful franchise in American sports. The new home of the Mets, meanwhile, is scrappier and more lighthearted. It plays with history fast and loose, as if it were just another form of entertainment. Yankee management started talking about replacing the old stadium more than a decade ago, and this seemed to be the tougher challenge: the stadium sparkled with the memories of 26 World Series championships. Architecturally, however, the stadium was charmless. Renovation in the 1970s may have made it more comfortable (fans loathed the painful wooden seats of the original version), but it also destroyed many architectural features. The original copper frieze that lined the stadium�s upper deck was ripped out. (A partial concrete replica was added later.) The monuments that had once stood in the deepest recesses of center field were moved to an insipid space behind the left-center field fence and named Monument Park. The little personality the stadium had came from its site: a tight urban lot framed by elevated subway tracks on one side and a city park on the other. The new stadium, which stands across the street from the old one, spruces up that image while reviving some of the lost history. The towering arched windows that dominated the original exterior, an echo of the Roman Colosseum, have been recast in a mix of limestone, granite and cast stone, and they are as imposing as ever. A small urban plaza, raised just above the level of the sidewalk, faces the bars and souvenir shops along River Avenue and the entry to the elevated train, strengthening the structure�s relationship to its urban setting. The city has also promised to build a park and several ball fields just to the south of the stadium in an effort to put a more community-friendly face on the project. A broad pedestrian walkway will eventually link the stadium to the fields and a Metro-North station farther to the south. The biggest improvements, however, are the interiors, which have been organized with an eye to the fans. The concourses are broad open spaces, with concession stands set along the perimeter so that they don�t obstruct views down to the field. More seats are concentrated below the mezzanine level, closer to the action. Even the luxury suites, which suddenly look like a holdover from the era of corporate excess, are discreetly set back so that they don�t detract from the shared intimacy of watching the game. There�s history here, too, or at least a facsimile of it. The Yankees have brought back the old manually operated scoreboards in left and right field, a feature that was last used in the 1960s. A replica of the old frieze sits along the top of the upper deck. Best of all, the slot that separated the scoreboard from the right-field stands in the old stadium has been recreated, so you can still catch glimpses of the subway rumbling by � a reminder that the stadium has been carved out of the heart of a living, thriving city. All in all, the new Yankee Stadium may be an austere, even intimidating place, but there�s nothing tacky about it. It�s straightforward, paint-by-numbers architecture. Getting to Citi Field is a more drawn-out aesthetic experience. Descending from the elevated 7 train in Queens, you have to cross a wide landscaped plaza before arriving at the main entry gate. A sea of parking stretches out in both directions. A pile of rubble (once the old Shea Stadium) currently lies just beyond the parking to the left. The building fits comfortably in this setting. Yankee Stadium�s facade is dominated by vertical lines, which emphasize its monumentality. Citi Field�s facade, which is loosely modeled on Ebbets Field, the former home of the Brooklyn Dodgers, is more low-key. Its brick cladding gives it a warmth that Yankee Stadium doesn�t have. A pre-cast concrete band cuts across the arched exterior, breaking down the structure�s scale and emphasizing its horizontality. History also feels less heavy here. Like the Yankees, the Mets built broad concourses that open up to the field so that you feel close to the game even while you�re standing in line for a beer. But the design is far more eclectic. A porch that cantilevers out over right field is modeled on the old Tiger Stadium. Big steel trusses conjure the structure that supports the nearby elevated train. A soot-colored pedestrian bridge that spans the bullpen behind center field is a miniature version of the Hell Gate Bridge. Even the color of the seats � dark green � was copied from somewhere else: the Polo Grounds, where the New York Giants baseball team played and the Mets played their first two seasons. The casual mood is reinforced by a number of spaces that have little to do with watching a baseball game: an auditorium, a Wiffle ball field � even an event room for weddings or parties. What saves the design from becoming completely hokey, however, is its openness to the real world outside. Most of Queens, from the faded remnants of the 1964 World�s Fair to the Whitestone Expressway and the muddy waters of Flushing Bay, is visible from the main concourse level. Farther up, you can see the Manhattan skyline several miles away. The visitors� bullpen has a view of dilapidated garages and auto body shops across 126th Street to the northeast. The reality of this working-class landscape tempers the artificiality of the interior. Even so, most serious architects today strive to create buildings that reflect the values of their own era, not a nostalgic vision of the past, no matter how open they may be toward their surroundings. And in that regard both stadiums will be a disappointment to students of architecture. For us, the buildings are just another reminder of the enormous gap that remains between high design and popular taste. dinosaur jesus Apr 03 2009 07:12 AM ]Even so, most serious architects today strive to create buildings that reflect the values of their own era, not a nostalgic vision of the past, no matter how open they may be toward their surroundings. The whole game of baseball is a nostalgic vision of the past. What values of our own era do we really want to bring to it? Frayed Knot Apr 03 2009 07:20 AM I like the part where Hankenbrenner (or was it Hal-enbrenner?) says; 'yeah, we overpriced some of the seats and as a result they're not selling as well as we hoped ... but we didn't misread the market!' Umm, yeah ya did. In fact, that's kind of the definition of misreading the market. Benjamin Grimm Apr 03 2009 07:20 AM ="dinosaur jesus"]]Even so, most serious architects today strive to create buildings that reflect the values of their own era, not a nostalgic vision of the past, no matter how open they may be toward their surroundings. The whole game of baseball is a nostalgic vision of the past. What values of our own era do we really want to bring to it? I don't know enough about architecture to explain why I agree with that statement, but I do. I would rather the Mets had built a stadium the reflects early 21st Century architecture, whatever it is. Citi Field looks like a nice place to watch a game, and it's visually appealing, but it also has a Disney feel to it, like you're in "Baseball Land." soupcan Apr 03 2009 07:35 AM These two come to mind when I think about new stadiums with a modern bent. Target Field, which is the new stadium now being built for the twins in Minnesota. Nationals - Edgy DC Apr 03 2009 08:00 AM Glass façades and baseball go together like bleach and baby baths. Even if there's no real threat of the two actually coming together --- and even if the vulnerable element is reinforced against the dangerous element --- it creates an atmophere of anxiety. Benjamin Grimm Apr 03 2009 08:19 AM I kinda like the Minnesota park. The Nationals less so, but it's not bad either. soupcan Apr 03 2009 08:19 AM Edited 1 time(s), most recently on Apr 03 2009 08:21 AM ="Edgy DC":292rjkrd]Glass fa�ades and baseball go together like bleach and baby baths. Even if there's no real threat of the two actually coming together --- and even if the vulnerable element is reinforced against the dangerous element --- it creates an atmophere of anxiety.[/quote:292rjkrd] That's an interesting point, but perhaps the juxtaposition of those types of elements is what appeals to an architect trying to make a statement? I'm certain Art Van DeLay would find a way to make it work, soupcan Apr 03 2009 08:20 AM ="Benjamin Grimm":3rv0nqrw]I kinda like the Minnesota park. The Nationals less so, but it's not bad either.[/quote:3rv0nqrw] Yeah - the Minnesota park has a sort of retro Jetsons feel to it. Edgy DC Apr 03 2009 08:29 AM The Nats park has like five different tiers, each one more heavily raked than the one below it. Sometimes the price of everybody being closer to the field horizontally is that you get some crazy options vertically. I'm sure you'll hear Keith complain this season about the vertigo-inducing situation of their press box. That is, if Mr. Fancy Pants makes a road trip to Washington. HahnSolo Apr 03 2009 01:35 PM Hmm. I guess my perception of Nationals Park was different. I took the Metro to the game and walked in through the CF promenade. And we sat field level, so I didn't notice the slopes in the upper reaches. I never saw the glass encasings in the photo above, and liked the interior of the ballpark. metirish Apr 03 2009 06:33 PM ="Nymr83"]In the post this morning Sherman says bad things about the New Yankee stadium while Kevin Kernan has some faint praise for Citi Field (though more dumping on Shea) Sherman just about takes a dump on the doorstep of the new MYF stadium I'm biased of course but I have tuned into YES a few times and if I didn't know better I would think they were playing the the MFYII.... IN TOUGH TIMES, A MONUMENT TO GREED ] IT IS beautiful, of course. But in the way that a woman who went to the world's best plastic surgeon might be beautiful. It is supposed to remind you of the previous incarnation, and ends up feeling artificial and overdone. The new Yankee Stadium has just about everything you would want in a modern sports facility, except charm and a sense of proportion. If you can afford the prices, you should have a good time there. The sightlines are wonderful. The large screen in center field is so clear you really do feel as if you could reach out and touch the people on it. The concourses are wide, and the food choices abundant. Yet the place brought nausea, not nostalgia. It just feels like the wrong time in the history of this country and this city to be opening up the George Mahal. When the project was initiated 2 � years ago, the Yankees could not have known what the state of the economy was going to be now. But this is about more than wrong place, wrong time. The Yankees' sense of entitlement and unrestrained excess is timeless. They will tell you they built this stadium for the everyman, stressing what they consider still affordable pricing and amenities. But this stadium, in actuality, was built for a moneyed class that in many respects does not even exist in this city any longer. Those $2,625-per-game Legends tickets behind home plate are selling slowly, and that certainly is because there is a whole class of banking/Wall Street/real estate mogul who would have scooped them up but has gone the way of flannel uniforms. But also because those seats not long ago would have screamed status, and now speak only to greed. The working world will not look onto those sitting there with envy. They will wish that those seats came with a dunk tank, not waiter service. The Yanks also want to make you believe that the history and romance could be easily shipped from the old place to the new one simply by recreating dimensions, reconstructing the facade or replanting Monument Park. However, the new Stadium didn't make me think of the place just across the street. It made me think about Vegas or Disney World, since it made me think of a fake place designed to manipulate my emotions and get into my wallet. "We don't see it as ostentatious or flashy," Hal Steinbrenner said. "We see it as classy." For me, class is out. In truth, sadly, the Yanks have conjured up a building that defines them: cold, corporate, over-privileged. At a financially distressed time in which Bud Selig has appealed to teams and players to be more fan friendly than ever, the Yanks have constructed even more of a moat between their players and those paying for all the goodies. For example, Yankee executives see it as a positive that the players now have underground parking rather than in the old place, where they had to walk 50 feet outdoors from the parking lot to the Stadium. In those 50 feet, fans held back by barricades could scream to their favorite players and -- if one of those players indulged -- get an autograph or two. Now the interaction between fans and players, and media and players, will be less than ever. I know no one sheds a tear for the media, but I think the new clubhouse, overstocked with off-limits areas and clandestine exits, only leads to a group that will feel less accountability. And an over-privileged nature and lack of accountability have hurt recent editions of the Yankees. "We are not a regular team," Brian Bruney said. "We are the New York Yankees, and it has to be nicer." Nice is in the eye of the beholder, and if you work for one of those few places left where the corporate card is still set on unlimited, then the new Yankee Stadium is for you. For many others, this place will have all the charm of Bernie Madoff. seawolf17 Apr 03 2009 06:44 PM And Brian Bruney, you're an overpaid tub of goo who can't find the strike zone with a guide dog who's lucky the Yankees wouldn't know pitching talent if it punched them in the neck, or you'd find yourself pitching for the Sioux City Sand Gnats. So shut the hell up and join Caveman on the Ass Line. Edgy DC Apr 03 2009 08:16 PM Wolfie, save something for the regular season. MFS62 Apr 03 2009 08:56 PM I just went on mlb.com to check the box scores. I noticed that the Mets' game tonight was played at "CitiField". The Yankees' game tonight was played at "New Yankee Stadium". Is that going to be the official name of that place? Later seawolf17 Apr 03 2009 08:57 PM Didn't they call it "New Comiskey" for a while too? themetfairy Apr 03 2009 08:58 PM ="seawolf17":3ge41hzz]Didn't they call it "New Comiskey" for a while too?[/quote:3ge41hzz] Yes - that's what it was called when I visited the park in 1991. seawolf17 Apr 03 2009 09:08 PM ="Edgy DC"]Wolfie, save something for the regular season. I know, but again, this stuff pisses me off. Who the hell is Brian Bruney? Good thing crappy middle relievers don't bat in the American League, or if I'm Lou Piniella tomorrow, I buzz an exhibition fastball right past his manboobs. You are "a regular team," Bruney. You're one of 30 teams that all need each other, or professional baseball doesn't exist. MFS62 Apr 04 2009 06:27 AM ="seawolf17":11yncmqm]Didn't they call it "New Comiskey" for a while too?[/quote:11yncmqm] Who is they? The White Sox? White Sox fans? The fans in Chicago? The papers in Chicago? But this is the official website of major league baseball itself. And that's why I asked if anyone knew if this is the official name of that place. Not just what some may call it. Later Frayed Knot Apr 04 2009 06:44 AM No, I don't believe 'New' is part of the official name. 'Fucking Gargantuan Edifice to Conspicuous Consumption' may be, although I'd have to check on that to be sure. SteveJRogers Apr 04 2009 06:45 AM ="MFS62":2qks5l00]="seawolf17":2qks5l00]Didn't they call it "New Comiskey" for a while too?[/quote:2qks5l00] Who is they? The White Sox? White Sox fans? The fans in Chicago? The papers in Chicago? But this is the official website of major league baseball itself. And that's why I asked if anyone knew if this is the official name of that place. Not just what some may call it. Later[/quote:2qks5l00] Yes, yes, yes, yes and yes. Reinsdorf didn't sell the naming rights until 2003. So it was Comiskey II from 1991 through 2003. G-Fafif Apr 04 2009 06:55 AM I believe that someday Seawolf will punch that arrogant Brian Brueny at New Yankee Stadium on his fat nose. MFS62 Apr 09 2009 06:56 PM Here's one you might not have heard about. (Thank you, Onion) http://www.theonion.com/content/video/yankees_buil ding_new_vacation Later Kong76 Apr 09 2009 08:39 PM Dude, your link actually pointed to this: http://www.theonion.com/content/video/study_children_exposed_to Figure out how to work stuff, child porn humor ain't for here. Later metsguyinmichigan Apr 09 2009 10:01 PM I clicked the link and thought, "Damn, the bleeping Yankees really ARE trying to appeal to everyone. Now I know why they have that massive video board in center." MFS62 Apr 10 2009 07:36 AM Let's try that again. And let the ad finish. http://www.theonion.com/content/video/yankees_building_new_vacation EDIT: I tried it after I re-posted and it worked. Later