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Kevin James recreates viral 'Gentlemen, start your engines' command at New York Mets game

ns_headshot_2024-clearby:Nick Schultz•08/20/24•

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Kevin James
© Jessica Alcheh-USA TODAY Sports

In 2007, Kevin James provided a 30-second clip that went on to live forever on the internet. He was the grand marshal at the Daytona 500 and his “Start Your Engines” command became one of the best-known in recent NASCAR history.

More than 17 years later, James – a longtime New York Mets fan – recreated it. He kicked off Tuesday night’s game at Citi Field in similar fashion after throwing out the ceremonial first pitch.

“God bless America,” James started, just as he did in 2007. “God bless our troops, God bless the New York Mets. And gentlemen, let’s play ball!”

Kevin James, of course, is best known for his roles as a comedian and actor. But his viral clip keeps with a trend the Mets have leaned into this year.

Grimace is now the most infamous of the franchise’s first pitches this year, especially after the winning streak that followed. But the Mets made headlines earlier this week when Haliey Welch – better known as the “Hawk Tuah Girl” – threw out a first pitch. It led to plenty of criticism considering it was on Camp Day, but it was part of the team’s goal to bring in notable names for the honor.

New York remains in the thick of the playoff race this year, entering Tuesday’s action with a 65-60 record to sit third in the National League East standings. The Mets also sit just 1.5 games back of the final NL Wild Card spot as August begins to wind down and September quickly approaches.

It’s been a rough go of late, though. The Mets are 4-6 over their last 10 games, but took a big step toward getting back on track Monday night. They picked up a big-time win over the Baltimore Orioles thanks to a walk-off hit from Francisco Alvarez.

After the game, manager Carlos Mendoza pointed out Alvarez’s struggles as of late. That made it even sweeter for him to get the victory and help keep the Mets in the hunt in the National League.

“It was good to see him get ready, be on time,” Mendoza said, via MLB.com’s Bill Ladson. “You know you are going to get a plus fastball from Domínguez, who is throwing 98, 99, up to 100. Alvy stayed short, getting the head out, and finally … Good for Alvy to get that feeling back, and he won out. It was huge for us.”