The teams honor the victims of the September 11 attacks as they face off in the Bronx this weekend
Category: Sports
The New York Yankees host the New York Mets on September 11, 2026, at 7:05 p.m. ET, marking the start of a three-game Subway Series at Yankee Stadium. This matchup holds special significance as it coincides with the 25th anniversary of the September 11 attacks, a day that has left an indelible mark on the nation.
Both teams are entering the series on a high note, with the Yankees boasting a record of 84 wins and 62 losses, placing them second in the American League East. They are looking to maintain their momentum as they chase the Tampa Bay Rays, who sit three games ahead. The Mets, with a record of 68 wins and 78 losses, are fourth in the National League East but come into the series having won six of their last seven games, including a thrilling 15-14 victory over the Miami Marlins in their most recent outing.
Starting for the Yankees is Carlos Rodon, who holds a 5-3 record with a 3.09 ERA and 70 strikeouts this season. The Mets counter with Nolan McLean, boasting an 11-8 record and a 3.06 ERA, along with 179 strikeouts. This pitching duel is expected to be a highlight of the series, as both pitchers have demonstrated strong performances throughout the season.
The Yankees have a collective slugging percentage of .409, ranking sixth in Major League Baseball, and they are looking to capitalize on their home advantage at Yankee Stadium, where they have a 40-31 record this season. Meanwhile, the Mets have excelled when scoring five or more runs, holding a remarkable 46-6 record in such games. This statistic could play a key role in the outcome of the series.
In terms of player performances, Yankees slugger Ben Rice has emerged as a standout, hitting 36 home runs this season, ranking seventh in MLB. Other notable contributors include Cody Bellinger, who has been on a hot streak, and Aaron Judge, who recently returned from a lengthy injury absence. The Mets' lineup features Juan Soto and Francisco Lindor, both of whom are capable of making a big impact in this rivalry.
This Subway Series is particularly poignant as it takes place on the anniversary of the September 11 attacks. Both teams will honor the victims and first responders by wearing hats featuring team logos alongside symbols of first responders. Pregame ceremonies will pay tribute to those who lost their lives in the attacks, making this event not just a sporting contest but a moment of remembrance.
The significance of this matchup extends beyond the game itself. As baseball resumed shortly after the attacks in 2001, it became a symbol of resilience and healing for a nation in mourning. This year, the game serves as a reminder of the strength and unity that can emerge from tragedy.
The Subway Series continues with games scheduled for September 12 and 13, both starting at 1:35 p.m. ET. The Yankees will send Gerrit Cole to the mound on September 12, followed by Cam Schlittler on September 13. The Mets are slated to start Zac Thornton and Christian Scott for those respective games. Each matchup will likely be competitive, as both teams fight for positioning as the regular season nears its end.
As the series progresses, fans will follow closely closely for the outcome of the games and for the players' performances and the tributes paid to the victims of 9/11. The emotional weight of this anniversary adds an extra layer to the rivalry, reminding everyone of the shared history that binds the city and its teams.
The first game of this Subway Series is set to be broadcast on the YES Network and streamed via DIRECTV, which is offering a five-day free trial for new customers. This accessibility allows fans to join in on the action and witness the tributes being paid during the game.
As the clock counts down to the first pitch, anticipation builds for the competition on the field and for the heartfelt moments of remembrance that will define this unique event in baseball history.