1973 10-16 Athletics at Mets World Series Game 3

The Thomas Paine Podcast's deep dive into Game 3 of the 1973 World Series between the Oakland A's and the New York Mets captures one of the most dramatic and enduring contests in baseball history. The game, played at Shea Stadium, begins with a dominant performance by Tom Seaver, who strikes out 12 batters—including nine in a row—exemplifying elite control and intensity. Despite early struggles with control, Jim Catfish Hunter holds firm through adversity, but the Mets take an early lead on a Wayne Garrett home run. The A's respond with aggressive base-running, highlighted by Reggie Campanaris’ stolen base and tying run in the eighth inning, setting the stage for a back-and-forth battle that extends into the 11th. The game remains tied 2-2 through 10 innings, marked by physical exhaustion, controversial plays, and pivotal defensive decisions. In the 11th, Campanaris delivers a go-ahead base hit, and Raleigh Fingers delivers a masterclass in relief pitching, silencing Cleon Jones with a crucial ground ball out to secure a 3-2 A's victory and a 2-1 series lead. The game, lasting over three hours and 10 minutes, becomes legendary for its endurance, clutch execution, and the pivotal role of bullpen arms under pressure.