The New York Mets are a franchise rich in history, filled with moments of glory and iconic players who have left indelible marks on the team’s legacy. With David Wright’s number 5 already retired, it’s time to look ahead and consider three players whose contributions to the Mets warrant such an honor. Retiring a number is the ultimate tribute, signifying a player’s lasting impact on the franchise and its fans. Here are three Mets who should have their numbers retired in the future.
1. Gary Carter (#8)
Although Gary Carter spent only five seasons with the Mets (1985–1989), his impact was immeasurable. As the starting catcher and a leader on and off the field, Carter was integral to the team’s success during one of its most memorable periods. His arrival before the 1985 season signaled a new era of contention for the Mets, culminating in their unforgettable 1986 World Series championship. Carter was an eight-time All-Star, a Hall of Famer, and a master behind the plate, guiding a talented pitching staff that included Dwight Gooden, Ron Darling, and Sid Fernandez. His clutch performances in the postseason, including his pivotal role in Game 6 of the 1986 World Series, solidified his status as a Mets legend. Carter’s leadership, charisma, and contributions to the team’s most celebrated era make him a deserving candidate for this honor.
2. Keith Hernandez (#17)
Keith Hernandez is synonymous with the Mets’ success in the 1980s. Acquired in a 1983 trade from the St. Louis Cardinals, Hernandez became the heart and soul of the team, transforming it from a perennial cellar dweller into a championship contender. A five-time All-Star and two-time World Series champion (one with the Mets), Hernandez brought gold-glove defense at first base, winning six of his record-setting 11 Gold Gloves during his time with New York. Beyond his defensive excellence, Hernandez was a consistent offensive contributor, hitting .297 across seven seasons with the Mets. As team captain from 1987 to 1989, he set the tone for the franchise with his leadership and fiery competitiveness. His influence on the Mets’ 1986 championship team and his ongoing connection to the fanbase as a beloved broadcaster make retiring his number 17 a long-overdue honor.
3. Dwight Gooden (#16)
Dwight “Doc” Gooden burst onto the scene as a teenage phenom, rewriting the record books and electrifying baseball fans with his unprecedented talent. Gooden’s 1984 rookie season was remarkable, earning him the NL Rookie of the Year award. However, it was his 1985 campaign that cemented his place in baseball history, as he posted a 24-4 record, a 1.53 ERA, and 268 strikeouts, winning the NL Cy Young Award unanimously. Gooden’s dominance on the mound made him one of the most captivating players of his era and a key figure in the Mets’ 1986 championship run. Despite personal struggles that affected his career, Gooden’s contributions to the Mets during his peak were monumental. His 1985 season remains one of the greatest pitching performances in MLB history, and his legacy as the Mets’ most electrifying ace makes his number 16 a prime candidate for retirement.
Honoring the Mets Legacy
While other names like Mike Piazza (#31) and Carlos Beltrán (#15) might also deserve consideration, Carter, Hernandez, and Gooden represent an era when the Mets were at their most dynamic and successful. These players not only brought championships and accolades to the team but also left lasting impressions that continue to resonate with fans. Retiring their numbers would be a fitting tribute to their immense contributions to Mets history, ensuring their legacies endure for generations to come. You
