Raising a Toast to the Original Mets

It's only fair to reach into that collection of classic coasters and salute the Mets original brew.

When New York's National League expansion team first took the field at the Polo Grounds 60 years ago Rheingold was their primary sponsor. 

Future Hall of Famers were on hand to usher in the new franchise. Casey Stengel managed while doubling as carnival pitchman; Gil Hodges tapped his Brooklyn background (and his own World Series history); Richie Ashburn came with his keen batting eye, along with the dry humor he'd use successfully after moving to the Phillies broadcast booth a year later.

If there was a 26th man back then, it could easily have been the ballclub's brew -- from signage at the park, to jingles and other ads as the game progressed.

These days, more than one beer will likely advertise during a ballgame; their messages slotted alongside those for cars, casinos and online diversions.



 

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