Returning To Citi Field Is The Normalcy All Mets Fans Need

by Tim Reilly June 22, 2021

FINALLY, I made my return to Citi Field. And Damn, did that feel good. Monday night was the first time I truly felt like all is right with the world again. Sure, I've gone out and done things I hadn't done in a year since COVID restrictions began loosening up these past few months. But it took seeing Jacob deGrom on the mound with a boisterous crowd to truly feel normal again.

This is by far the latest in the season it has ever taken me to catch my first game. Traditionally, I go on Opening Day and then the bulk of my games are mid-summer and fall. That just wasn't in the cards this year. Frankly, I'm glad I waited it out. Personally, I didn't want to experience the ballpark with many restrictions. When I go to a game, I go there for the atmosphere that comes with sitting shoulder to shoulder with screaming fans. Otherwise, I'd just stay at home and watch on my couch.

Jacob deGrom vs. the Braves today:

5 IP, 1 H, 0 R, 2 BB, 6 K

Season ERA: 0.50

Scoreless innings streak: 30 (personal best is 31, Mets record is 32.2 (R.A. Dickey)) pic.twitter.com/xrb6YMSCOk
— SNY (@SNYtv) June 21, 2021

Monday night was the first game when nearly all restrictions were lifted. There are still a handful of things shutdown across Citi Field, but it's on the cusp of complete normalcy. It's a beautiful thing.

If you're able, comfortable and have yet to do so, I strongly urge you to get out to a game. I cannot put into words what I felt simply from plopping down on a hard plastic seat in the upper deck with a drink in hand to watch deGrom on the bump. That famous monologue from Field of Dreams came playing through my head:

"Baseball has marked the time. This field, this game: it's a part of our past, Ray. It reminds of us of all that once was good and it could be again."

People are definitely coming back to the stadium, and all that once was good is looking like it will be again. It was good to be back at Citi Field.

Best catch of the game @The7Line pic.twitter.com/RjOvK4c4ol
— Tim Reilly (@LifeOfTimReilly) June 21, 2021

P.S. Don't forget The 7 Line pop-up shop is open once more! My buddy's kid was lucky enough to snag a 7 Line shirt during the t-shirt toss last night.