A quick update to yesterday’s big news… According to Adam Rubin of ESPN New York, the Mets plan to retire Mike Piazza’s number this season in a ceremony at Citi Field.
Rubin says no official date has been set as of yet, but that the Mets are talking to Piazza’s people to confirm a date and to make concrete plans. That’s going to be a fun and exciting day!
Mike Piazza: I’m Going In As A New York Met
As all of you on MMO already know, we first reported that Hall of Famer Mike Piazza will be representing the New York Mets when he is officially enshrined at Cooperstown later this year.
On Thursday afternoon, Piazza and fellow nominee Ken Griffey Jr, were on hand for the Baseball Hall of Fame press conference in New York.
The president of the Hall of Fame Jeff Idelson got things started with some opening comments… He then turned to the the newest members of the Hall of Fame and asked them to stand…
And then an emotional Mike Piazza made it official saying, “As much as I loved coming up with the Dodgers and I’m truly grateful to them, I’m going in as a New York Met.”
“”It’s tough. For me, as much as I enjoyed my time there in Los Angeles, I ended up in New York. And I feel like the fans here truly brought me into their family. Every time I’ve come back I’ve been so incredibly honored from the response. Unfortunately we do have to choose one. And, for me, I always sort of enjoyed reconnecting here in New York.”
A Mets contingent that included owner Jeff Wilpon, GM Sandy Alderson and Assistant GM John Ricco were all on hand at the New York Athletic Club.
“I think the Mets have such a unique fan base, not only in the city but across the country. It’s just something I can’t describe. It’s a mixture of love and frustration and ups and downs. The emotions are very strong.”
Kevin Kernan of the New York Post shared a quote from Mike Piazza’s dad Vince, who told him:
“I am so happy for Michael, what a story, what a great kid. … I can’t believe it. … The hell Michael went through, the criticisms he took, the way they ripped him. He took the high road and, God, it’s paid off. He’s just one hell of a kid. He’s finally getting the due he deserves, now they are talking about his abilities and what he’s accomplished.”
Congratulations Mike!
