Tom Glavine

Lore & Background

The climax of his Mets career arrived in the 2000 National League Championship Series against the St. Louis Cardinals. In a series that would define the franchise's modern identity, Glavine delivered heroic performances, including a complete-game victory in Game 6 to force a decisive Game 7. Although the Mets ultimately fell short of the World Series title that year and again in 2001, Glavine's contributions were instrumental in building the team's reputation as a perennial contender during those years.

In Their Own Story

The humidity hung heavy over Shea Stadium on a late October night, the air thick with the scent of cut grass and anticipation. Tom Glavine stood on the mound, adjusting his cap, the familiar weight of the baseball settling into his palm. He didn't need to shout; his calm presence was enough to steady the infielders behind him. As he wound up for a left-handed curveball that would drop like a stone, the stadium held its breath, knowing this was the moment where legends were made and history written in chalk dust.

Reader's Guide

Tom Glavine joined the Mets as a free agent in 1998, bringing with him two Cy Young Awards from his time with Atlanta. During his six seasons in New York, he posted a career-high 23 wins in 2000 and helped lead the team to back-to-back National League pennants. His signature moment remains Game 6 of the 2000 NLCS against St. Louis, where he pitched a complete-game shutout to force a decisive finale. Glavine was also known for his sportsmanship; after losing a no-hitter in his final Mets game, he graciously accepted the loss and celebrated with teammates. Glavine's impact extended beyond statistics. He served as a mentor to younger pitchers and embodied the professional standard of consistency. His departure marked the end of an era for the Mets' rotation, leaving a legacy that is still revered by fans today.

Did You Know?

• Tom Glavine was inducted into the National Baseball Hall of Fame in 2014 alongside his long-time rival and friend Greg Maddux.
• He pitched for both the Atlanta Braves and New York Mets, winning two Cy Young Awards with Atlanta before joining New York.
• Glavine threw a no-hitter for the Braves in 1996 but famously lost a no-hit bid on his final day as a Met when he gave up a hit in the ninth inning.