Despite placing second in the National League East, the Mets fell one game short of playoff contention following a catastrophic collapse during the final week of the season.
Piazza contributed a .348 average with 23 home runs and 76 RBI during his time with the Mets and once again was voted to the National League All-Star team.
On the pitching side, another Marlins castoff made his presence felt as Al Leiter had his career best marks as a starter.
The Mets played an unforgettable opening day game at Shea Stadium on March 31 against their division rival Philadelphia Phillies.
[5][6][7] The Mets won the game 1–0 in 14 innings when backup catcher Alberto Castillo delivered a full-count, two-out, pinch-hit single to right with the bases loaded off Philadelphia closer Ricky Bottalico.