Mike Piazza frustrated the Mets allowed his September 21, 2001 jersey to be auctioned

Hall of Fame catcher Mike Piazza hit one of the most memorable home runs in baseball history on September 21, 2001. It was the first game in New York after the attacks on the World Trade Center, and Piazza’s home run helped the Mets come back and beat the Braves late in the game. The victory helped the city regain a sense of normalcy.

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Kevin Kernan of the New York Post is reporting that the Mets allowed the jersey Piazza wore during that game to be sold in an auction that began on Monday. That is frustrating for Piazza.

“I’ve expressed my feelings to Jeff (Wilpon) and the Mets. And while it never should have left Citi Field, they have assured me that contact with the seller has been made and they are making a concerted effort to get the jersey back. I’m hopeful that an agreement can be reached and we can give back to the fans and all New Yorkers a piece of that evening that was more than just a game.’’

A Mets spokesperson acknowledged a mistake was made:

“We made a mistake in selling the jersey and Jeff called Mike to express our regret in so doing,’’ the spokesperson said. “We have dedicated a section in the Mets Hall of Fame and Museum to celebrate Mike’s achievements and his induction into the National Baseball Hall of Fame and are exploring memorabilia to display in that area.”

It’s Piazza’s hope that the jersey is recovered so it can be put on display at the Hall of Fame in Cooperstown as well as the 9/11 Memorial Museum.

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