1977 Timeline

Mets Rewind Timeline

1977

1977 is arguably the lowest point in franchise history. The Mets fired their manager in May, traded Tom Seaver and Dave Kingman in June and finishing the season 37 games behind the Philadelphia Phillies in the National League East with a 64-98 record.

January 1

Frisella dies in car accident

Former Mets pitcher Danny Frisella dies in a car accident in Arizona. Frisella was driving a dune-buggy on a country road when the vehicle spun out of control and overturned. Frisella was 30 years old.

April 26

Mets acquire Randle from Rangers

The Rangers trade Lenny Randle, who is still under suspension for fracturing manager Frank Lucchesi’s cheekbone in a spring training altercation, to the Mets for a player to be named later (infielder Rick Auerbach) and cash.

May 31

Mets fire Frazier, replaced by Torre

The Mets fire manager Joe Frazier after a 15-30 start to the season. He is replaced by Joe Torre.

June 15

Midnight Massacre: Mets trade Seaver, Kingman

The Mets trade pitcher Tom Seaver to the Cincinnati Reds in exchange for pitcher Pat Zachry, infielder Doug Flynn, and outfielders Steve Henderson and Dan Norman.

July 13

Lights Out in New York

With Lenny Randle at the plate, the Shea Stadium goes dark as the Great Blackout hits New York. The Mets played a shadow ball game illuminated by car headlights and Jane Jarvis played Christmas songs on the organ.

July 16

Mays, Mantle, Snider and DiMaggio shine in Old Timers Game

At the annual Old-Timers Day at Shea Stadium, Willie Mays, Mickey Mantle, Duke Snider and Joe DiMaggio make a rare appearance together as they walk through the center field gates.

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19 June