On October 26, 2000, the New York Yankees won their third consecutive World Series title and their 26th overall by defeating their crosstown rivals, the New York Mets, in the famous "Subway Series." The Yankees clinched the series in Game 5 with a 4-2 victory at Shea Stadium, the Mets' home turf.
The game was a pitching duel between the Yankees' Andy Pettitte and the Mets' Al Leiter. Pettitte pitched 8 2/3 innings, allowing only two runs on five hits, while striking out four. Leiter was also solid, going seven innings and giving up three runs on eight hits.
The Yankees took an early lead in the second inning when catcher Jorge Posada hit a solo home run off Leiter. They extended their lead to 3-0 in the sixth inning on a two-run single by second baseman Luis Sojo.
The Mets tried to mount a comeback in the ninth inning, scoring two runs and putting the tying run on base. However, Yankees closer Mariano Rivera, one of the most dominant relievers in baseball history, came in to shut the door and secure the championship for the Yankees.
Yankees shortstop Derek Jeter was named the World Series MVP for his outstanding performance throughout the series. Jeter batted .409 with two home runs and two RBIs, showcasing his clutch hitting and leadership skills.
The 2000 World Series victory marked a historic moment for the Yankees, as they became the first team to win three straight titles since the Oakland Athletics achieved the feat from 1972 to 1974. It also solidified the Yankees' dynasty of the late 1990s and early 2000s, during which they won four World Series titles in five years.
