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1974 Timeline

Mets Rewind Timeline
1974

The defending National League champions fall from first to fifth place in the Eastern Division. The team compiled a 71-91 record. It was the team’s first losing season since 1968.

January 5

Rheingold closes its doors, ends relationship with Mets
Due to heavy financial losses, Rheingold Beer announces it will close its Brooklyn-based plant. As a result, the brewery will be forced to end its 13-year relationship with the Mets.

April 6

Yankees begin two-year tenure at Shea
The Bronx Bombers begin their two-year stint at Shea Stadium, where the team will compile a 172-150 (.534) record during the renovations to the Stadium, with a 6-1 victory over Cleveland. The 'other' NY fans cheer loudly when the scoreboard posts the Mets' 5-4 loss in Philadelphia.

May 1

Seaver K's 16 in extra loss to Dodgers
Tom Seaver strikes out 16 Los Angeles Dodgers and gives up only three hits in over twelve innings, but gets a no-decision when the Mets lose the Chavez Ravine contest in the 14 innings, 2-1. Steve Garvey strokes a walk-off single to center field off Harry Parker to score Billy Buckner with the winning run.

May 12

Kranepool records 1,000th career hit
In a 4-3 loss to the Cubs at Wrigley Field, Ed Kranepool collects his 1,000th major league hit. The James Monroe High School graduate will play his entire 18-year career with the Mets, retiring as the all-time franchise leader with 1,418 hits.

September 11

Mets, Cards play 25 inning marathon
The New York Mets and St. Louis Cardinals play a 25-inning marathon at Shea Stadium. The game ended at 3:13 a.m. with the Cards topping the Mets 4-3.

December 3

Mets deal McGraw to Phillies
The Mets trade reliever Tug McGraw, Don Hahn and Dave Schneck to the Philadelphia Phillies for outfielder Del Unser, pitcher Mac Scarce, and catcher John Stearns.
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