Mets Game Thrills: Baby Can't Wait for Extra Innings!

Mets Game Thrills: Baby Can't Wait for Extra Innings!

3 minute read
Published: 10/20/2024

In a dramatic twist of fate, Elisabeth Tarlor's overwhelming emotions during a Mets game propelled her into early labor, welcoming baby Summer Shea into a family already decked out in Mets gear and superstition.

In a turn of events straight out of a sports-themed soap opera, Elisabeth and Eric Tarlor welcomed their daughter Summer Shea just hours after the Mets triumphed over the Dodgers, proving that even a bustling stadium can't outshine the drama of parenthood. With a closet packed full of Mets memorabilia and a heritage rooted in baseball superstition, the Tarlors are ready to ensure their newborn's first words will be 'Let's go Mets!'—hopefully, before she learns to crawl.

The emotional journey began for Elisabeth while seated in front of the TV, nervously anticipating the final minutes of the game. Witnessing the Mets clinch victory was exhilarating enough; however, it also turned out to be the catalyst for the arrival of a new fan. 'I didn’t think I would have a baby on a game day,' Elisabeth remarked, her voice still carrying the echoes of the game’s excitement. 'But here we are! My heart couldn't take it, and my body followed.'

At approximately 3 a.m. the next day, Summer Shea made her grand entrance into the world, weighing in at a respectable number that was likely calculated in baseball stats. The couple chuckled as they recounted the timing, acknowledging how the Mets' win had dramatically shifted from joy to ‘We need to find a hospital, like, yesterday.’ After powering through the game, Elisabeth was definitely not expecting the next inning to be labor and delivery.

Interestingly, Elisabeth's transition from a die-hard Yankees fan to a proud Mets supporter could stand as a remarkable example of love conquering sporting rivalry. 'It was like a heartwarming movie moment, only without the montage,' she explained. 'I went to my first Mets game with Eric, and there was something about the atmosphere — or maybe it was the hot dogs that got me.'

The couple had joked about naming their daughter after the team, with whimsical suggestions such as 'Shea Grimace Oh-My-God Carlos'. Their decision to land on Summer Shea turned out to be a blend of homage and practicality. To ensure her lifelong allegiance to the Mets, they stocked her closet with an assortment of Mets merchandise, from plush toys resembling players to books detailing the team’s history. Summer Shea’s wardrobe is essentially an entire season's worth of game day attire.

In an effort that might tire lesser fans, the Tarlors bravely watched the first few Mets playoff games post-birth, proving that the family’s passion for baseball starts early. As the game unfolded and the baby nursed, Eric muttered under his breath, 'Just one more win and she’ll be a Mets lifer.' It was strategic thinking, really—indoctrination during her formative weeks.

Reflecting on the future, Eric shared his hopes: 'I just want them to grow up in a world where the Mets are consistently good. Good enough for me to finally retire my '76 shirt in peace. I mean, has it really been 100 years?' His fond yet poignant wish was perhaps tinged with the weight of a loyal fan who's endured one too many heartbreaks.

While Summer Shea's path as a devoted Mets fan seems virtually guaranteed, it also serves as a gentle reminder for all sports parents: Beware the double-edged sword of enthusiasm. With each game, the highs could be triumphs or tirades, undoubtedly shaping her lifelong relationship not just with a team but with the unpredictable emotional rollercoaster that is baseball. Life’s important lessons, one inning at a time.