The New York Mets recently hosted the annual “Battle of the Badges” baseball game at Citi Field for the third consecutive year. The game, which featured the NYPD facing off against the FDNY, was made even more special this year as it took place just a day after the 23rd anniversary of the September 11 attacks. The event brought much-needed joy to the service workers who participate in this annual tradition.
NYPD Officer and baseball team captain P.J. Ragone expressed his gratitude for being able to play on a big league field in front of fans and raise money for important causes such as the NYCPBA Widows and Children’s Fund and the FDNY Foundation. He highlighted how the event provided a sense of community and joy during a difficult week.
Mets legend David Wright, who acted as the host of the event for the second year in a row, shared his deep appreciation for the first responders who put their lives on the line every day. Wright emphasized the importance of honoring these brave men and women and expressed his gratitude for being able to participate in the event.
Before the start of the game, Wright took a moment to thank the crowd for their support of the first responders. He spoke about how important the game was to him personally, having grown up in a first responder family. Other Mets players, including Sean Reid-Foley and Jeff McNeil, also attended the event to show their support.
The game itself was a close match, with the FDNY ultimately emerging victorious with a 5-1 win over the NYPD. This win gave the FDNY a 14-12 advantage in the series, adding to the excitement of the annual event.
FDNY Officer and player Josh Burgos expressed his gratitude for being able to represent the fire department in the game, especially following the anniversary of September 11. He described playing on a major league field as a dream come true and thanked the Mets and sponsor Ford for their support.
Overall, the “Battle of the Badges” baseball game served as a meaningful and joyful event for the NYPD and FDNY officers, Mets players, and fans in attendance. It provided an opportunity to honor and thank the first responders who sacrifice so much for the city of New York and raise money for important causes. The game’s significance was heightened by its timing, coming just after the solemn anniversary of September 11.