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Five things we'll miss about Shea Stadium

Compiled by Mark Herrmann

March 28, 2008

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1. THE NAME. "Shea Stadium" has a certain lyrical quality, even now, long after most people have forgotten who William Shea was (the lawyer who led the effort to return National League baseball to New York). Remember the Beatles documentary in which John, Paul, George and Ringo each said "Shea Stadium" in identifying the concert that marked a turning point in the group's career?

2. THE LAST TIE BETWEEN NEW YORK AND THE JETS. Even the team's practice field and offices are moving to New Jersey. But remember when Joe Namath dealt with those swirling winds?

3. THE U-HAUL SIGN, visible way in the distance over the left-centerfield wall, which was reminiscent of the first sign on that domed Queens building, "SERVAL ZIPPER." And that was a reminder of Shea's unique touch: That open expanse beyond the outfield that made it look as if the place was never finished.

4. THE TOMMIE AGEE SIGN. Way up there, above leftfield. There's a round marker with Agee's No. 20 denoting the spot where the Mets centerfielder hit the only fair ball ever in Shea's upper deck on April 10, 1969.