Baseball, Memories, and Mookie: A Guide to the Mets’ Home Opener

Ah, Opening Day at Citi Field. It’s like the first day of school, but with better food and a much lower chance of pop quizzes. The Mets, fresh off a 3-3 road trip to start the 2025 season, return home on April 4 to face the Toronto Blue Jays at 3:10 p.m. For one afternoon, hope, history, and hot dogs will take center stage as Mets fans celebrate the return of baseball to Flushing.

With a packed house expected all weekend, the Mets strongly encourage fans to take mass transit. Citi Field’s parking lots open at 12:10 p.m., but so do New York’s traffic jams. Do yourself a favor—hop on the 7 train, the LIRR, or a Citi Bike if you’re feeling adventurous. And if you insist on driving, bring a sandwich and a good podcast because you’ll be spending quality time on the Whitestone Expressway.

New York’s most iconic skyscraper is getting in on the fun. The Empire State Building will light up in blue and orange on April 3, reminding Yankees fans that, yes, there is another baseball team in town.

Outside Citi Field, a block party presented by Ford kicks off at 12:10 p.m. Expect a DJ, games, appearances from Mr. and Mrs. Met, and, best of all, Mookie Wilson. The Mets legend will be on hand signing autographs, sharing stories, and reminding everyone how he unintentionally became the most famous dribbler in baseball history.

Mets Hall of Famer Ed Kranepool, who spent his entire 18-year career in Flushing, will be honored with a season-long tribute patch featuring his iconic No. 7. Kranepool passed away on September 8th 2024 at age 79, leaving behind a legacy as a beloved figure in Mets history. Before the game, members of the Kranepool family, along with his former teammate Art Shamsky, will be recognized in a pregame ceremony. A true Met from start to finish, Kranepool was a part of the franchise from its early expansion struggles to the miracle of 1969, making him a perfect symbol of perseverance and triumph.

Mets fans love nostalgia—probably because it reminds us that greatness is always within reach. To mark the 25th anniversary of the 2000 National League champion Mets and the 10th anniversary of the 2015 NL champs, some key figures from both squads will participate in the ceremonial first pitch. John Franco and Al Leiter will represent the 2000 team, while Bartolo Colón and Juan Lagares will be there for 2015.

Franco and Leiter were the gritty, New York-tough heart of a 2000 squad that clawed its way past the Cardinals before battling the Yankees in a hard-fought Subway Series. As for 2015, it was a team powered by dominant young arms, clutch hitting, and one very large home run off Bartolo’s bat. Lagares, the defensive wizard of that squad, will be on hand to remind us that he once hit .348 in the playoffs and played a pivotal role in that unforgettable October run.

Lissa deGuzman of Broadway’s Wicked will perform both the Canadian and U.S. national anthems, proving that Mets fans aren’t the only ones capable of hitting high notes under pressure. Later, FDNY firefighter Regina Wilson will deliver “God Bless America” in the seventh inning, giving everyone a chance to soak in the moment.

For those making a weekend of it, Saturday and Sunday bring giveaways. The first 15,000 fans on Saturday will get a Juan Soto Players Pin, a great keepsake whether he’s a Met for one year or for life. On Sunday, fans can take home a 2025 schedule picture frame courtesy of Apple Bank—because nothing says planning ahead like knowing exactly when you’ll be back at Citi Field.

Sunday is also Kids Opening Day, featuring family-friendly activities and a ticket deal offering four seats for $50. A great way to introduce young Mets fans to the joy of baseball—and maybe even a love for the game that lasts a lifetime.

After the Blue Jays series, the Mets host the Miami Marlins for three games. Tuesday features $5 hot dogs, soft pretzels, and Coors Light—because nothing pairs better with a close game than an affordable snack.

Opening Day at Citi Field is about hope, history, and the promise of a season filled with unforgettable moments. The Mets are rolling out the blue-and-orange carpet, honoring their past, and setting the stage for what could be a special season. So bring your gloves, bring your voices, and most importantly, bring that unwavering Mets optimism. Because in baseball, anything can happen—and with this team, it just might.