Vincent Carchietta-USA TODAY Sports

Before Steve Cohen and the Mets went on their big spending spree, star pitcher Jacob deGrom decided to sign a five-year, $185 million deal with the Texas Rangers.

DeGrom, 34, had spent his entire career with the Mets organization, ever since he was drafted in the ninth round of the 2010 MLB Draft. He had a tremendous career in the orange and blue from 2014-2022, posting a 2.52 ERA in 1,326 innings. He won Rookie of the Year in 2014 with a 2.69 ERA in 22 starts. He also won back-to-back Cy Young awards in 2018 and 2019, and received votes in four other years. He was named an All-Star four times.

DeGrom made only 11 starts this year after being delayed by an injury, but he still posted a 3.08 ERA and 14.3 K/9, with his only struggle coming in the home run department.

On Thursday, the former Mets ace took out a full-page ad in the New York Post.

“I can still remember the exact moment I stood on the Citi Field mound for the first time after getting called up in 2014,” deGrom wrote. “It was a moment filled with so many wonderful emotions that will always be etched in my mind.”

“My family and I are forever grateful to the Mets for an incredible last 12 years and, most importantly, for believing in me. For giving me the opportunity to play the game I love at the highest level for all these years. There are so many people that I want to thank and recognize:

“Steve Cohen, Billy Eppler, the entire front office, managers, coaches, players, both past and present, bullpen catchers, trainers, clubhouse personnel, security staff, family room workers, kitchen staff, PR staff, photographers, stadium personnel, New York City police officers, TV personalities and journalists. Each and every one of you played such a vital role in our lives in New York. Beyond a working relationship, many of you became true, life-long friends to Stacey and me.”

“To the New York Mets fans – your passion, devotion and unwavering support for me, from the very beginning, has been incredible. It is humbling and appreciated beyond words. Thank you for your dedication and for how kindly you embraced me and my family. It has been a true honor to wear a Mets uniform all these years. The New York Mets, the fans and the city will always hold a very special place in our hearts.”

Signed by Jacob deGrom and family.