The New York Mets opened their 2026 season with an unexpected twist when Tony Award winner Chris Jackson faltered during the national anthem at Citi Field on Thursday night.
Jackson, best known for portraying George Washington in 'Hamilton,' mistakenly repeated a line-singing 'What so proudly we hailed' instead of 'O'er the ramparts we watched'-before recovering and finishing the performance.
The miscue momentarily cast a shadow over the Amazin’s, who suffered a historic collapse last season. But the team responded fiercely, erupting for five runs in the first inning and knocking out Pirates ace Paul Skenes-marking the first time he failed to complete the opening frame in his career.
Jackson, also recognized for roles in 'In the Heights' and as Derek Jeter in 'Bronx Bombers,' added an ironic footnote to Mets lore. The game marked the MLB debut of top prospect Carson Benge.
New York retooled aggressively after missing the postseason, trading Pete Alonso and Edwin Diaz while acquiring Freddy Peralta, Bo Bichette, Marcus Semien, and Jorge Polanco.