In a move sure to make Jerry Seinfeld proud, the New York Mets will be retiring former 1st baseman Keith Hernandez’s number 17 next season. The ceremony is currently scheduled for the team’s July 9th game against the Miami Marlins.
Hernandez was a two time World Series champion in his career, and was a key piece on the Mets beloved 1986 championship team. A 5x All Star and former NL MVP, Hernandez spent parts of 7 seasons in Queens where he became a fan favourite and fixture on the New York sports scene.
In a prepared statement Hernandez remarked “I’m thrilled…This is truly a special honor that lasts beyond a lifetime… I was very emotional when Steve called to let me know about the number retirement. This is the highest honor an organization can bestow upon a player. I also want to thank Mets fans, who have treated me like family since I arrived in 1983.”
Hernandez originally wore number 37, however when traded to New York the organization had already retired the number for former manager Casey Stengel. As a result he made the switch to number 17, which will now have its own special place in Mets history.
The 68 year old lefty becomes only the 4th player to have his number retired by the organization joining Tom Seaver, Jerry Koosman and Mike Piazza. The Mets also previously retired numbers 14 and 37 to honor former managers Gil Hodges and Stengel.
Since retiring, the two time Silver Slugger winner has worked with the organization as a broadcaster since 1999. Hernandez has proven to be as effective in the booth as he was on the field earning 3 Emmys for Best Sports Analyst during his time behind the mic.
The Mets have now retired two numbers since owner Steve Cohen purchased the team in 2020. Under previous ownership, the organization had developed a reputation for not properly honoring former players. Cohen has obviously made it a point of emphasis to change that narrative noting “We made a promise to continue celebrating and honoring our tremendous history and this is another deserving step in that direction.”
Hernandez was previously inducted into the Mets hall of fame in 1997.