Former New York Mets manager Bobby Valentine recalls the historic return of baseball after the September 11 terrorist attacks, highlighting the role of President George W. Bush and the iconic home run hit by Mike Piazza.
In the aftermath of the devastating September 11 terrorist attacks, the world was plunged into darkness and uncertainty. Amidst the despair and grief, one glimmer of hope emerged from an unexpected source: baseball.
On September 21, 2001, just 10 days after the attacks, baseball returned to New York City with a poignant home game between the New York Mets and Atlanta Braves at Shea Stadium. The match marked a symbolic moment, a beacon of resilience and healing for a city still reeling from the horrors of 9/11.
Remembering 9/11: Baseball's Triumph Amidst Tragedy
Former New York Mets manager Bobby Valentine credits President George W. Bush with recognizing the transformative power of baseball in the wake of the attacks. Bush firmly believed that the resumption of the sport would play a crucial role in the nation's road to recovery.
"Bush truly believed, he was the one who believed that if baseball came back, the road to recovery would be a lot better," Valentine recalled in an interview with OutKick's Dan Dakich. "And he pushed for it and I believed in him."
Remembering 9/11: Baseball's Triumph Amidst Tragedy
As the Mets and Braves took the field that night, the atmosphere was electric and highly emotional. With the Mets trailing 2-1, catcher Mike Piazza stepped up to the plate in the bottom of the eighth inning. In a moment that would become etched in baseball history, Piazza launched a Steve Karsay pitch deep into left-center field for a go-ahead two-run homer.
The crowd erupted in a thunderous roar, a cathartic release of emotions. Piazza's home run was more than just a sporting achievement; it was a symbol of hope and resilience for a city that had endured unimaginable pain.
The return of baseball after 9/11 had a profound impact on New York City and the nation as a whole. The games provided a much-needed distraction from the grief and uncertainty, offering a sense of normalcy and community.
"The sound of it was so crackling," Valentine said of Piazza's home run. "It was an amazing barrel, if you will, that’s why they call them these days. And it just turned the frowns upside down and got things going in the right direction again."
Later that year, President Bush made a personal appearance at the third game of the World Series between the Yankees and Arizona Diamondbacks at Yankee Stadium. Dressed in an FDNY sweater covering a bulletproof vest, Bush emerged from the Yankees dugout and waved to the crowd as he took the mound.
"I'm with you, the country's with you," Bush said as he threw a strike directly over home plate.
The electric crowd cheered wildly, demonstrating the collective strength and resilience of the nation. While the Yankees ultimately lost the World Series, the moment served as a powerful reminder of the healing and unity that baseball can foster.
Today, Piazza's home run is widely considered one of the most iconic moments in New York City sports history. It represents the indomitable spirit of a city that refused to be broken and the power of sports to heal even the deepest wounds.
Baseball's return after 9/11 sent a clear message to the world: even in the face of adversity, the human spirit can prevail. The sport continues to serve as a symbol of hope, resilience, and the unwavering spirit of unity that defines the American people.
