1970 – Mets’ outfielder Tommie Agee becomes the first non-pitcher to win a Gold Glove in each league. The New York flycatcher also won the honor with the White Sox during his 1966 Rookie of the Year season.
1972 – Jon Matlack (15-10, 2.32) is selected by the BBWAA as National League Rookie of the Year. The 22-year old Mets southpaw becomes the second player in team history to win the award joining teammate Tom Seaver, who copped the honor in 1967.
1983 – Mets’ outfielder Darryl Strawberry breaks the Los Angeles’ four-year stronghold on the Rookie of the Year Award when he becomes the first non-Dodger to win the honor since 1978. Rick Sutcliffe, Steve Howe, Fernando Valenzuela and Steve Sax had been the previous winners.
2009 – The Mets, in response to the fans’ displeasure that little was done to commemorate the team’s past in their new home at Citi Field, announce the V.I.P. entrances will now be named for three of the persons who have had their number retired by the franchise, Gil Hodges, Tom Seaver, and Casey Stengel as well as naming the bridge over the bullpen in honor of William Shea. Additionally, a team Hall of Fame and Museum will be opened, full-color banners of Mets players will be displayed in front of the Jackie Robinson Rotunda, and the light poles in the parking lots will feature team logos.
2010 – Eleven years after resigning from his last managerial position, former Houston (1994-96) and Anaheim (1997-99) manager Terry Collins is selected to replace Jerry Manuel as the manager of the Mets, who was fired a day after the season ended. The 61-year old skipper, known for alienating some of his players due to his old school approach, has compiled a 444-434 won-loss record, finishing second five of his six years in the dugout.
