From First to Worst: The New York Mets 1973-1977 $26.95

Did your dad live through perhaps the most painful decade of Mets history? Help him relive the pain by buying him this book, a reflection on the Mets feverishly fast fall from grace.

If you’re too young to remember, the Mets came within one game of winning the 1973 World Series, and seemed poised for success in the following years. They had a young and talented pitching staff, the best defense in the National League, and a clutch hitter named Rusty Staub in his prime. But a series of bumbling decisions, mismanagement, and an empty farm system sent the once-promising franchise to the cellar. And you thought “collapse” was a recent addition to Mets history!

Through massive research and player interviews, author Jacob Kanarek guides you through all the pitfalls, dashed dreams, and behind-the-scenes moves that destroyed the organization. It may be considered a study in how to fail, and should be recommended reading for anyone who doesn’t want to see history repeat itself.