For the first time in baseball history, the World Series is about to feature two expansion teams. For the uninitiated, here’s the complete list of baseball’s expansion teams:

1961: Angels and Rangers (Senators)

1962: Astros (Colt .45s) and Mets

1969: Brewers (Pilots), Nationals (Expos), Padres, Royals

1977: Blue Jays and Mariners

1993: Marlins and Rockies

1998: Diamondbacks and Rays

Looking over these teams, there are only nine World Series titles amongst them all. Furthermore, there are only 20 World Series appearances in this group. Extrapolating further, these teams have combined for 75 playoff appearances. 

Through all of that, the Angels are the only franchise with an overall winning record. The Astros have the most playoff appearances.  With all of that, the Mets are the most successful expansion franchise. 

The Mets five pennants are more than any other franchise. Royals are second with four. The Mets are tied with the Blue Jays and Marlins for most World Series wins. The Mets trail only the Astros (10) and Royals (9) in playoff appearances (8). 

The goal for any team is to win the pennant and the World Series. The Mets have done that more than any expansion team. However, if the Mets lose to the Royals, the mantle would be shifted to Kansas City. This is but one of a dozen or so subplots to this World Series.  With that said, as of right now, the Mets are baseball’s best expansion team. 

Lets Go Mets!