Home Run Apple

Citi Field Home Run Apple 2012

Home Run Apple is a notable feature of Citi Field, the home ballpark of the New York Mets of Major League Baseball (MLB). The apple, which is a large mechanical device shaped like an apple, rises from its housing whenever a Mets player hits a home run. This tradition started in the 1980s at Shea Stadium, the previous home of the Mets, and was carried over to Citi Field when it opened in 2009. The Home Run Apple has since become an iconic symbol of the New York Mets and their home games.

History

The original Home Run Apple was introduced at Shea Stadium in 1980 as a fun and unique way to celebrate home runs hit by the Mets. It was a simple idea: whenever a Mets player hit a home run, a large red apple, adorned with a Mets logo, would rise out of a hat in center field, delighting fans. This original apple was made of fiberglass and was part of the Mets' efforts to improve the fan experience during a period of lackluster performance on the field.

When the Mets moved to Citi Field in 2009, a new, larger Home Run Apple was created to continue the tradition in the new ballpark. This new apple, made of more durable materials and equipped with modern mechanical systems, is located beyond the center field fence and is a prominent feature of the ballpark's design. The new apple is approximately four times the size of the original and has become a beloved symbol of the Mets and their new home.

Design and Operation

The current Home Run Apple at Citi Field is made from durable materials designed to withstand the elements, as it is exposed to weather throughout the baseball season. When a Mets player hits a home run, the apple rises from its housing, accompanied by flashing lights and celebratory music, creating a memorable moment for fans. The apple's rise is controlled by a hydraulic system, ensuring smooth operation.

Cultural Significance

The Home Run Apple is more than just a celebration of home runs; it has become a symbol of the New York Mets' identity and tradition. It represents the continuity between Shea Stadium and Citi Field, linking past and present fans. The apple is also a popular photo opportunity for fans visiting Citi Field, symbolizing the joy and excitement of Mets baseball.

See Also

• Citi Field
• New York Mets
• Shea Stadium
• Major League Baseball