Regional Dog Fight: Yankees vs Mets

Now that I have visited all 30 Major League ballparks (and 35 Minor League stadiums to boot) it’s time for some regional playoffs. Some cities and several states are fortunate enough to have more than one MLB team. It poses a dilemma for fans as who to support, but for the hot dot explorer is it simple science: weigh the factors and make a decision. You can look at my scorecards below, but remember that my visits to ballparks are a snapshot in time. I only judge what I experience, while the regional fans might have more insight. This is your chance to sound off on your favorite dog in the first of a series of Regional Dog Fights.

First stop is New York City to see which team’s dog cuts the mustard. Personally, I found it nearly a draw with the Yankees edging the Mets in total combined score. Here is how it shakes out.

Dog		Ballpark		Total Dog/Game
Bun	5	Location	3.5
Taste	5	Access	5
Toppings	5	Cleanliness	5
Price	3	Ambiance	4.5
Portability	5	GA Ticket Price	3.5
It Factor	5	Fans	4
	28		25.5	53.5

Dog		Ballpark		Total Dog/Game
Bun	5	Location	5
Taste	5	Access	5
Toppings	5	Cleanliness	5
Price	3.5	Ambiance	4
Portability	5	GA Ticket Price	3
It Factor	3.5	Fans	5
	27		27	54

Hot Dog Explorer Testing at Yankee Stadium

But there is more than meets the eye. The Yankees enjoyed the benefit of a Sunday afternoon game that was also Old Timer’s Day. That helped pack Yankee Stadium. The Mets on the other hand suffered through a weeknight game with windy and wet (and chilly) weather. Those factors could have explained the disparity in attendance and enthusiasm. Plus, Yankee is slightly easier to get to. Both dogs were, at first look, evenly matched. Both teams use Nathan’s Famous franks and those great little cardboard coffins for portability. And, both have a kosher option in which you can get a tasty Hebrew National frank. But the Mets exceeded expectations in toppings and especially specialty dogs. The artery-clogging Pastrami Dog is a meat bomb that is hard to beat.

Seats in both ballparks were overpriced, but I really flinched at the prices at Yankee Stadium. I have taken vacations for less. As far as ambiance it depends on what you like. Like tradition with a gothic feel, head to Yankee Stadium. Want a more modern baseball experience with a better baseball vibe, take the number 7 to Citi Field.

The Dog at Citi Field

I am not a New Yorker and have never been a fan of either team, so I don’t have a dog in this fight (so to speak). But given the choice, even though Yankee Stadium scored a hair better, I’d down my dog watching the Mets. Don’t believe me? Here is my scientific proof. At the game I talked to two friends that were also eating a dog. One wore a Mets jersey the other a Yankees jersey. Both agreed, dogs and food in general are better in Citi Field. It pained the Yankee fan to admit it, but he was brutally honest.

Been to both ballparks? Live in NYC? What’s your opinion? Did the Yankees dog really edge out the Mets, or would you rather sit next to me in Citi Field. Let’s hear it fans.

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