The New York Mets plan to honor beloved and legendary broadcaster Ralph Kiner throughout the 2014 season. As we’ve seen already, players ware wearing commemorative uniform patches on their right sleeve of their jerseys.
On Opening Day, the Mets will celebrate the life and legacy of Kiner during a pre-game, on-field ceremony when the Mets host the Washington Nationals at 1:10 PM at Citi Field. The ceremony will include a video tribute and the unveiling of the commemorative logo on the left field wall. Kiner’s family will attend and participate in the ceremony.
Ralph’s death has motivated one fan, 31-year-old Ed Solomon, to launch a twitter campaign to get the Mets to officially name a portion of Citi Field, “Kiner’s Korner.”
By following @MetKinersKorner on Twitter, you petition the Mets for renaming Citi Field Sections 132-134 as Kiner’s Korner, commemorating the 52-year Mets career of Ralph Kiner.
Ed hails from Long Island and told me cares about the history of this franchise tremendously. He’s a die-hard fan who attends many Mets games each season including 64 games last year.
When I asked him what made Ralph so special, he responded, “He taught so many the game we care for, for so long, but also in a very unique way. The man deserves a fitting tribute for the impact he had.”
“For 2014, the Mets have plans for commemoration, such as a jersey patch and an outfield wall logo, but apparently there has not been anything announced for beyond this year. The broadcast booth has been named in his honor, but how many fans encounter that plaque? He deserves a tribute in perpetuity, out in the open.”
“Plus, naming Sections 132-134 Kiner’s Korner is logistically sound for the Mets. There is no sponsorship with that area, and the team could offer group or promotional seating offers. I am familiar with Twitter and figured a Twitter petition would be an effective way to gain support.”
One of the things I love about MMO is how it gives me a chance to get to know so many different dedicated Met fans. Fans who go above and beyond. Fans like Ed.
Help Ed by following him on Twitter at @MetKinersKorner, and send a message to the Mets that we want a lasting tribute for Ralph that we can talk about for years and years to come. Let’s make Kiner’s Korner at Citi Field a reality.
