In the world of sports, few teams embody the spirit of the underdog quite like the New York Mets. For decades, they've been the ragtag bunch that never quite makes it, the team that dreams big but often falls short. But what makes the Mets so captivating is not just their on-field struggles, but the rich history and cultural significance that surround them. This is where A. M. Gittlitz's book, Metropolitans: New York Baseball, Class Struggle, and the People's Team, comes in. It's not just a sports book; it's a deep dive into the social and political fabric of New York City, told through the lens of baseball.
Gittlitz, a lifelong Mets fan and self-described countercultural writer, takes us on a journey through the team's history, but not in the typical way. He doesn't just recount the wins and losses; instead, he weaves together the Mets' story with the broader narrative of class struggle, race, and social change in New York. From the team's early days as the original Metropolitans in the 19th century to the modern-day Mets, Gittlitz shows how the team has always been more than just a baseball team; they've been a symbol of the working class, a beacon of hope for the downtrodden, and a mirror to the city's struggles and triumphs.
One of the most fascinating aspects of Gittlitz's book is his focus on the Mets as a people's team. He argues that baseball has always been a working-class sport, and the Mets are the embodiment of that. From the early days of the American Revolution to the rise of the Major League Baseball Players Association, baseball has been a litmus test for America's relationship with labor. The Mets, with their roots in the original Metropolitans, are a direct link to that history, and Gittlitz shows how the team has always been a force for the common man.
But Gittlitz doesn't stop there. He also delves into the racial history of baseball, reminding us of the stories of Jackie Robinson, Willie Mays, and even Babe Ruth. He shows how the Mets have always been a team that stands for racial equality, and how their history is intertwined with the broader struggle for civil rights in America. This is particularly fascinating, as it shows how the Mets have always been more than just a baseball team; they've been a symbol of the fight for justice and equality.
One of the most intriguing aspects of Gittlitz's book is his exploration of the Mets' connection to New York City's working class. He shows how the team has always been a reflection of the city's struggles and triumphs, and how they've been a source of hope and inspiration for the people of New York. From the team's early days in the Polo Grounds to their current home in Citi Field, the Mets have always been a part of the city's fabric, and Gittlitz shows how they've been a force for good in the lives of New Yorkers.
However, Gittlitz's book is not without its criticisms. He doesn't shy away from pointing out the Mets' flaws and shortcomings over the years. But what makes his writing so compelling is that he never loses sight of the bigger picture. He shows how the Mets' struggles are part of a larger narrative, and how they've always been a symbol of the working class and the fight for social justice. This is what makes his book so engaging and thought-provoking.
In the end, Metropolitans is more than just a sports book. It's a deep dive into the history and culture of New York City, told through the lens of baseball. Gittlitz shows how the Mets have always been more than just a team; they've been a symbol of the working class, a beacon of hope for the downtrodden, and a mirror to the city's struggles and triumphs. It's a book that will leave you with a new appreciation for the Mets and a deeper understanding of the city that they call home.
