Keith Hernandez Day at Citi Field celebrates the New York Mets legend, Keith Hernandez, who is widely recognized for his contributions to the team. Hernandez, a key figure in the Mets’ 1986 World Series championship, is known for his exceptional skills as a first baseman, his leadership on the field, and his pivotal role in transforming the Mets into a competitive team. The day is a tribute to his remarkable career and lasting impact on the organization.
The event often features various tributes, including pre-game ceremonies, video highlights of Hernandez’s career, and appearances by former teammates and coaches. Fans attending the game might receive special memorabilia, such as commemorative items or jerseys. The Mets also typically acknowledge Hernandez’s achievements with a special presentation, reflecting on his contributions both on and off the field.
Keith Hernandez’s influence extends beyond his playing days. As a broadcaster, he has been a familiar voice for Mets fans, offering insightful commentary and maintaining a strong connection with the team’s community. The celebration at Citi Field underscores his legacy and the enduring respect he commands from fans and the organization alike.
With former teammates Mookie Wilson and Ed Lynch, plus ex-teammate and current broadcast partner Ron Darling sitting behind him, Hernandez spoke to a packed stadium like a king addressing his royal subjects. Mike Piazza, who himself has a number in the rafters, introduced Hernandez by noting that he could feel No. 8 (Gary Carter) with them as well.
Saturday brought a full docket for Hernandez, whose brother, daughters, grandson and other family members were flown in by Steve Cohen to support Hernandez on his special day. Things began with a media press conference an hour and a half before he stepped onto the field for the big show. In that press conference, he poked fun at himself, as he often does.
“Well, I’m a great procrastinator. I did my speech this morning,” Hernandez said, before recounting the scene on his way to the ballpark. “Driving in this morning, I saw all the 17 jerseys. That was kind of touching. It’ll be like old times tonight, except I’ll be in a suit instead of a uniform.”
The former 42nd round pick by the Cardinals only ended up in a Mets’ uniform because of a trade. With the benefit of hindsight, the famous transaction is easy to declare as a massive win for both the player and organization. But when it all went down, on June 15, 1983, Hernandez felt much differently.
“I’ve learned and read that it was a joyous day in Met nation. Little old me in St. Louis wasn’t very happy,” he said to uproarious laughter. “What did I know? It was a life and career changing event.”
Not until spring training of 1984 did he begin to see ownership’s vision. While, in Hernandez’s eyes, the talent was evident right away, so was something else.
“When I came here I noticed that there wasn’t a whole lot of unity on the team. The team had to get together and talk baseball. That’s what my first goal was. Let’s meet after the game. Let’s have a beer in the hotel bar, and let’s talk about hitting. Everyone started having fun, and things gradually changed.”
In succession, the team won 108 games in the 1986 regular season, knocked off the Astros in a tense National League Championship Series that Hernandez acknowledged was difficult for the fans, then became legends by beating the Red Sox in the World Series. The next year, Hernandez was named the first captain in club history, and when his playing days were over, he became even more ingrained in the organization by joining the SNY broadcast booth.
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