Battle of the Badges: The greatest rivalry in NY returns to Citi Field

There is nothing quite like the heartbeat of New York City; a place that runs on grit, resilience, and a loyal devotion to the community. This summer, that spirit is set to take center stage at Citi Field as the New York Mets have announced the return of the annual Battle of the Badges. Presented by Your Local Ford Stores, this charity showdown takes place on Wednesday, August 19 and is poised to celebrate and honor the city’s Finest and Bravest who keep our five boroughs moving forward every single day.

For anyone who calls this city home, the NYPD and FDNY are not simply names on a uniform. They are our neighbors, our protectors, and our heroes. The Battle of the Badges has become a legendary fixture in local lore, a long-standing tradition of competitive camaraderie where the tension is high but the respect is higher. The rivalry runs as deep as the city streets, with New York’s Bravest currently holding a 14-12 edge in the series. After last year’s contest was cut short by a classic New York rainstorm with the game tied, you can bet these teams are coming back to Flushing ready to settle the score on the diamond, fueled by pride and a whole lot of heart.

In a move that feels right at home in the city that never sleeps, the Battle of the Badges will be played as a straight single-admission doubleheader. Fans heading to the 1:10 p.m. Mets vs. Padres game can keep their seats once it ends, soak in the atmosphere, and watch the transition from the big leagues to a contest between those who serve on the front lines. It is an entire day dedicated to baseball and the people who make this city work, and every ticket helps the cause. The New York Mets have pledged to donate $5 from every single-game and group-sale ticket purchased to benefit local FDNY and NYPD charities, ensuring that while the competition stays on the field, the community benefits off of it.

The players taking the field are former high school, college, and minor league stars who traded their cleats for badges. Watching them compete on the same turf where Mets history is written adds an emotional layer to the day that you won’t find anywhere else. Helping anchor the festivities is Mets legend David Wright, returning for his third year as host. For Wright, the event is deeply personal. “The Battle of the Badges game gives each of us an opportunity to say thank you to the unsung heroes of our community,” Wright notes. “While most of us would run away from trouble, these brave and heroic men and women run towards it. I can’t think of a more worthy cause than to come together to celebrate New York’s Finest and Bravest while raising money for their charities. Can’t wait to see you there!”

Photo by Your Local Ford Stores

This entire day is made possible through a partnership with Your Local Ford Stores, whose involvement goes well beyond a standard sponsorship with a genuine commitment to our first-responder communities. By backing this event, Ford is helping to amplify the stories of these officers and firefighters, giving New Yorkers a platform to stand up and cheer for the people who dedicate their lives to our safety. This sponsorship is a partnership built on the shared understanding that in New York, we show up for each other. “We have been incredibly proud to support the ‘Battle of the Badges’ since its inception 5 years ago,” said John Billard, Chairperson of Your Local Ford Stores. “Ford is deeply rooted in the communities we serve, and we feel a profound responsibility to give back to the courageous men and women of the NYPD and FDNY who put their lives on the line for us every single day. This event is a wonderful opportunity for all of New York to come together and show them our appreciation.”

Whether you’re a die-hard Mets fan, a supporter of the NYPD and FDNY, or just someone who loves the energy of a heated rivalry on the baseball field, this is the event of the season. To get in on the action and support the charities that serve our city, you can secure your seats by visiting Mets.com/BattleOfTheBadges. Don’t miss out! Let’s fill the stadium and show New York’s Finest and Bravest exactly how much they mean to us.