The 2001 New York Mets season was a year of resilience and significant emotional milestones, as the team finished with a winning record of 82-80 and remained in postseason contention until the final weeks. Managed by Bobby Valentine, the season was highlighted by the legendary performance of Mike Piazza, who hit 36 home runs and provided one of the most iconic moments in baseball history with his game-winning home run in the first game back in New York after September 11. Despite a slow start, the Mets surged in the second half of the year, showcasing a strong pitching staff led by Al Leiter and the continued development of stars like Edgardo Alfonzo and Robin Ventura.