New York's baseball misfortunes lead to positivity for NYCFC | OneFootball

When New York City FC began their first season in 2025, there is no question that the team would have thought they would still be calling Yankee Stadium home. They probably never thought Citi Field would become another home venue that also feels like home. Playing in baseball stadiums all of these seasons has certainly been unique. But it has also caused strife when it comes to scheduling.

For example, nobody knew where the final home game of the Major League Soccer regular season would take place for most of 2025. There was also the question of where the Pigeons would play if they made the postseason. Sports Illustrated Stadium was always an option, but it is one that fans abhorred.

Thankfully, although it stinks for the Yankees and Mets, the baseball woes of the local teams have had a positive impact on NYCFC.

The Yankees and Mets helped NYCFC

First, the Mets did not make the postseason at all. As a result, the team from the Bronx and Queens confirmed that Decision Day against Seattle Sounders FC will take place at Citi Field. The club's ability to announce this a few weeks ago allowed fans to plan accordingly for the final regular-season game of 2025.

This is similar to what happened in 2023. The Mets and Yankees did not make the playoffs, and the Decision Day game was moved to Citi Field. Of course, supporters know that the Pigeons failed to make the postseason as well, despite a win against Chicago Fire FC.

The difference in 2025 is that NYCFC knows they are in the postseason. The question is whether they will secure a home-field advantage in the Round One Best-of-3 series. The answer will arrive once the final whistle is blown for every Eastern Conference team this Saturday. They do know they will play at least one game at home.

While the Yankees did make the postseason, the Bronx baseball team lost in the American League Division Series. As such, Yankee Stadium is also available. So, it was not shocking that NYCFC announced that any home matches in the MLS Cup Playoffs will take place at Yankee Stadium.

Playing at the Pigeons' main home is fantastic news. Sure, the home advantage was weakened this year. But Yankee Stadium can still turn into a fortress. Having the ability to play at the true home could make a difference in the quest for another trophy.

Baseball's woes in the Big Apple turned into positive news for NYCFC. In the end, everything worked out for the club. Oh, and after 2025, there will be just one more year of questioning where the Boys in Blue will play toward the end of the season and in the playoffs.