In the bustling city of New York, there’s a man named Craig Anderson who holds a piece of history in his hands — a sheet of paper detailing the 1962 performance of the New York Mets. This tale of the losingest team in baseball history has been with him for over six decades, a reminder of the struggles and triumphs of that fateful season.
Anderson, along with fellow pitcher Jay Hook, are among the few who endured the entire tumultuous season with the Mets. Anderson, a rookie reliever, etched his name in baseball history when he clinched two wins in a doubleheader sweep on May 12. However, those wins would be his last in the major leagues as he went on to suffer a record-breaking 19 consecutive losses, a mark that stood for nearly three decades.
Fast forward to today, Anderson still closely follows the Mets and other teams, noticing trends and patterns that harken back to his own playing days. As the White Sox approach the record set by the ’62 Mets, Anderson roots for them to secure a few wins and avoid the ignominy that his team knows all too well.
In the midst of a playoff chase, the White Sox face an ominous challenge — breaking the modern-era record for losses held by the 1962 Mets. With only a month left in the season, they are on pace to surpass this notorious milestone. As fans and experts debate the significance of this feat, the legacy of the ’62 Mets remains a cherished chapter in baseball lore.
Reflecting on their time with the Mets, Anderson and Hook share a mix of bittersweet memories. Despite the challenges and losses they endured, the spirit of resilience and camaraderie defined their experience. Marv Throneberry, the endearing first baseman known for his misadventures, symbolizes the Mets’ endearing charm amidst failure.
As the baseball world awaits the outcome of the White Sox’s season, fans and historians recall the unique essence of the ’62 Mets. From the legendary losing streaks to the unwavering support of loyal fans, the story of this team transcends mere statistics and records.
For Anderson and Hook, their time with the Mets remains a cherished part of their identity in the baseball world. While they may hope for the record to remain unbroken, their legacy as members of a historic team is etched in the annals of the sport.
As the final games of the season unfold, the fate of the White Sox hangs in the balance. Whether they surpass the Mets’ record or fall short, the enduring spirit of the ’62 Mets will continue to captivate fans and inspire generations to come.
With each passing year, the legacy of the ’62 Mets grows in significance, reminding us of the enduring magic of baseball and the resilience of those who embrace both victory and defeat with grace.
(Top photo from the Polo Grounds on June 20, 1962: Associated Press file)
