Considered America’s national pastime, baseball is much more than just a sport in the United States: it is a true symbol of American culture and history. In New York, this passion takes on an even more spectacular dimension. The vibrant, cosmopolitan city provides an ideal stage for baseball matches, attracting fans from all over the world. Here, every match is more than just a game; it’s a unifying event that reflects the city’s dynamism and competitive spirit.
New York’s stadiums, beyond their primary function, serve as meeting places where traditions are perpetuated and passed down from generation to generation. From the hot dog vendors to the chants of the crowd, the experience of seeing a baseball game in New York is an immersion in a rich and exciting folklore, a true celebration of the shared love of the sport. As a result, attending a baseball match in New York is often considered an essential step towards understanding the soul of this exceptional city.
When should you go to a baseball match?
MLB calendar
Major League Baseball (MLB) follows a rigorous and exciting schedule that spans several months each year, giving baseball fans plenty of opportunities to support their favourite teams. The MLB regular season generally begins in early April and runs through to the end of September, encompassing nearly 162 games for each team.
Regular phase from April to September
The season kicks off atthe beginning of April. The stadiums come alive again after the winter, welcoming fans with renewed hope for their favourite team. The regular season is in full swing from April to September. Teams compete in their respective leagues and against teams from other leagues in inter-league matches.
All-Star Game
Mid-July: the traditional MLB All-Star Game, a major event that brings together the best players from each league for a star-studded match that often decides home-field advantage for the World Series.
Playoffs in October
October sees the start of the playoffs. The top teams in each league face off in knockout matches. This phase includes divisional matches, league championships and culminates in the World Series. The World Series takes place from late October to early November. The champions of the American League and the National League compete for baseball’s ultimate title.
How does MLB work?
Major League Baseball (MLB) is structured around two main leagues: theAmerican League (AL) and the NationalLeague (NL). This division into two distinct leagues dates back to the history of American professional baseball and reflects traditions and rules of play that have evolved differently over time.
Each league is subdivided into three divisions: East, Central and West. The regular season sees teams play mainly against other teams in their own league and division, although inter-league games are also scheduled.
New York baseball teams
New York has two baseball teams, the New York Yankees, who play in the American League, specifically in the Eastern Division. And the New York Mets, who play in the National League, also in the Eastern Division. In order to qualify for the playoffs, each team must either finish top of its division or obtain one of the places available to the teams that qualify via the wild card system.
MLB generally offers several playoff spots through this wild card system, which allows teams that did not win their division but have good regular season records to qualify for the playoffs. As a result, the Yankees and Mets have multiple opportunities to reach the playoffs, whether by dominating their respective divisions or by qualifying among the best runners-up.
The New York Yankees
History and honours
The New York Yankees are one of MLB’s most iconic and successful teams, founded in 1901. With more than 27 World Series titles to their credit, the Yankees have a rich history marked by success and excellence. The team has seen some of the biggest names in baseball, including Babe Ruth, Lou Gehrig, Joe DiMaggio, Mickey Mantle and Derek Jeter, contributing to its reputation as a legendary franchise.
New York Yankees calendar
Yankee Stadium
The current Yankee Stadium, inaugurated in 2009, is located in the Bronx. It can accommodate around 50,000 spectators. Known for its electric atmosphere, it is a must-see for baseball fans. The easiest way to get there is by metro, with several lines serving 161st Street-Yankee Stadium station.
What are the best seats at Yankee Stadium?
For those who want to see a baseball game in New York at Yankee Stadium but are looking for good value for money, here are some options that combine good visibility and relatively moderate cost:
Main Level Outfield
Sections 205 to 209 and 231 to 234, located on the main level in the corners of the outfield, offer a fairly close view of the action at a reasonable price. They allow you to see the plays on the bases and the interactions between the players, as well as offering an interesting perspective on the whole field.
Grandstand Infield
For those who prefer a more central view without spending too much, sections 414 to 426 on the Grandstand Level are an excellent option. Located on the upper levels but directly behind home plate, these seats give a good panoramic view of the game.
Terrace Level
Sections 306 to 315 on the Terrace Level, located slightly behind home plate and towards the bases, offer an elevated view that makes it easy to follow the progress of the match. They represent a good compromise between cost and visibility.
For the best experience, consider seats behind home plate or along the baselines for a perfect view of the game. High seats offer a full view of the pitch and stadium atmosphere, while sections closer to the pitch bring you closer to the action.
The New York Mets
History and awards
Founded in 1962, the New York Mets have often been seen as the antithesis of the Yankees in terms of success, but they have their own rich history with several World Series titles, most notably in 1969 and 1986. The Mets have always been appreciated for their resilience and ability to surprise.
New York Mets calendar
Citi Field
Opened in 2009, Citi Field is located in Flushing, Queens. The stadium can accommodate around 41,922 fans and is famous for its tribute to New York baseball history, including the Jackie Robinson Rotunda. Accessible by underground with the 7 and Long Island Rail Road lines, the stadium is easily accessible for fans.
What are the best seats at Citi Field?
For those looking to see a New York baseball game at Citi Field while still wanting great value for money, there are several seating options that offer a great view without being prohibitively expensive. Here are some of the best options:
Infield Promenade
Sections 509 to 519 on the Promenade level offer a central view of the game. Located just behind home plate, but at a higher level, these seats allow you to follow all the action on the pitch while remaining affordable. They are ideal for understanding game strategies and seeing the players’ movements.
Outfield Walk
Sections 537 to 535 and 501 to 503, also on the Promenade level but in the outfield, are among the most economical in the stadium while still offering a good view of the pitch. Althougha little further away from centre play, they provide a complete match experience, ideal for fans who want to enjoy the atmosphere without spending a lot of money.
Field Level
For a closer view of the action but without paying the high prices of the lower sections, sections 106 to 109 and 130 to 134 on the Field Level are excellent options. Located along the first and third base lines, these sections offer a close-up view of the exchanges between base players and pitchers, at a moderate cost.
These varied options at Citi Field allow spectators to fully experience a baseball game in New York, with choices to suit different budgets, while guaranteeing good visibility and comfort.
