A milestone at Citi Field
On September 10, 2024, MLB Network will debut its documentary *When America Took the Field* at 10 p.m. ET, broadcasting from Citi Field where the New York Mets will host a special screening for season ticket holders. The film marks the 25th anniversary of the September 11 attacks and examines how baseball served as a unifying force for a nation in mourning.
The documentary weaves together exclusive conversations with Hall of Famers such as Joe Torre, Ken Griffey Jr., Chipper Jones, John Smoltz and Craig Biggio, alongside former Mets stars Mike Piazza, John Franco, Al Leiter and Todd Zeile. Each interview offers personal reflections on the days following the attacks and the role of the sport in restoring a sense of normalcy.
Among the most poignant moments highlighted is Piazza’s emotional home run at Shea Stadium on September 21, 2001, a swing that resonated far beyond the ballpark. The film also revisits President George W. Bush’s ceremonial first pitch at Yankee Stadium during Game 3 of the 2001 World Series, and includes broadcaster Jack Buck’s message of resilience from St. Louis, underscoring a collective yearning for hope.
Todd Zeile, who served as executive producer, recalled September 21, 2001, as the most significant day of his baseball career, emphasizing how the sport’s ability to bring people together transcended the game itself. The documentary will re‑air on September 11, 12 and 13, and become available on MLB.TV the week of September 13, ensuring a wider audience can experience this tribute to unity and resilience.