Athletics Shut Out Mets as Jeff McNeil Shines in Citi Field Return

Former Mets star leads Oakland to victory in first game back at old home stadium.

Apr. 11, 2026 at 3:30am

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A fractured, geometric painting depicting a baseball player at the plate, with the pitcher's mound and stadium seating deconstructed into sharp, overlapping planes of navy, green, and orange.A cubist interpretation of Jeff McNeil's homecoming game at Citi Field, where the former Mets star shone for the visiting Athletics.NYC Today

In his first game back at Citi Field since being traded to the Oakland Athletics, former New York Mets star Jeff McNeil had two hits, including a run-scoring single in a three-run ninth inning that helped the Athletics defeat the Mets 4-0 on Friday night.

Why it matters

McNeil was a fan favorite during his time with the Mets, making the All-Star team in 2019 and 2020. His return to Citi Field as a visiting player is sure to be an emotional moment for both the player and the New York fans who cheered him on for years.

The details

McNeil, who was traded to the Athletics in the offseason, went 2-for-4 at the plate, driving in one of Oakland's three runs in the ninth inning to put the game out of reach. The Mets were held scoreless throughout the contest, managing just four hits against the Athletics' pitching staff.

  • The game took place on Friday, April 11, 2026 in New York City.

The players

Jeff McNeil

A former All-Star infielder who spent the first six seasons of his MLB career with the New York Mets before being traded to the Oakland Athletics in the offseason.

New York Mets

The professional baseball team based in New York City that competes in Major League Baseball's National League East division.

Oakland Athletics

The professional baseball team based in Oakland, California that competes in Major League Baseball's American League West division.

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What they’re saying

“It was great to be back out there on the field at Citi Field. I have a lot of fond memories here and the fans have always been so supportive. I'm glad we were able to get the win tonight.”

— Jeff McNeil, Oakland Athletics Infielder

What’s next

The Mets and Athletics will continue their three-game series at Citi Field on Saturday and Sunday.

The takeaway

McNeil's successful return to his former home stadium shows the continued impact he had on the Mets franchise and their fans during his time in New York. His performance also demonstrates the Athletics' ability to acquire talented players who can make an immediate difference for the team.