It’s been dawning on me the last couple of years how the passion for the Subway Series seems to have dwindled down. I haven’t completely put my finger on it, but perhaps it is a combination of the 2000 World Series, the Yanks not being a dynasty anymore, no George Steinbrenner, and the Mets finally having success in the series the last five years. Remember, this was always a series that was a “must win” for the Yankees because of their status in the city. For the Mets, and their fans, it was about standing up to the big brother in town. Whatever it is I don’t get the same passion out of the crowds or fans. Citi Field was better last night, but pales in comparison to some of the historical crowds. Last year the Mets swept the Yankees at the Stadium. Satisfying no doubt, but hardly a big deal was made about it. The Yankees win a game on a Luis Castillo popup and, although the fans enjoyed it, there was more of a sting because of the fact the game was lost versus it was lost against the Yankees.

If you don’t believe me watch one of the classic games on SNY. During yesterdays rain delay they showed the Matt Franco game from July of 1999. The crowd from the very first pitch was totally into it. When Paul O’ Neill hit that two run homer you could hear the Yankees fans at Shea. Same went for the Mets fans when Piazza’s blasted an RBI double. This was the first inning! Where did that passion go?

Personally I think six games are too much. I remember how great it was when the series was alternated between Shea and Yankee Stadium in 1997 and 1998. Maybe doing that would make this series intense and meaningful. Scarcity always makes people appreciate something more.  Obviously both teams want in with the revenues that come with a capacity crowd so why not compromise and do a weekend celebration of four games, from Thursday to Sunday, where you play two at each Stadium. You could even alternate between Citi Field and Yankee Stadium so each team gets a weekend date. Ironically, the first Subway Series was played during the week, one game during the day, and that did just fine at the gate.

Two weekends are stretched out and you lose momentum. Imagine Luis Castillo playing at Citi the day after the error? There is a possibility to create more drama and storylines. That is what this is about anyway. That is my two cents about why the Subway Series has lost steam and something that can be done to change it. What about you? What are your thoughts?

Tags: Luis Castillo, Mike Piazza, New York Mets, New York Yankees, Paul O' Neill, SNY, Subway Series, Yankee Stadium