Hernandez Receive High Honor

In sports, getting your number retired is a pretty big deal. It means that you had such a huge impact on the team you played for, that they want to honor you in this way. In the 60 years of the New York Mets, they've retired seven numbers. This summer, they will be adding another number to that list. On July 9th when the Miami Marlins make a weekend visit to New York, the Mets will retire the #17 in honor of Keith Hernandez.

Keith got traded from the Cardinals to the Mets in 1983, and played seven years in town. Playing in 880 games, he hit .297 with 80 home runs, 159 doubles and 486 RBI. But that only tells one side of the story. The other side, was six gold gloves for his stellar defensive play at 1st base. He was so good in the field that it was a joy to be able to watch play everyday for most Mets fan. For those who weren't able to watch him play know him for his broadcasting skills. His been in the Mets booth since 1999 and provides an insight that so few in this game can.

His playing days were done by the time I really started getting into baseball, but thanks to the internet, YouTube and SNY I've been able to see highlights of his greatness on display. That and reading all these stories about what he was like on the field and in the clubhouse. HIs ability on the field as a player and a leader are what lead to this high honor of having his number retired.

Now this leads to another big question. Who's next to have their numbers retired? One name jumps to mind right away is #5 for David Wright, at least for most fans of this generation. That will happen one of these days for sure. You could put Gary Carter's #8, #16 for Doc and #18 for Daryl as well. Those numbers come to mind right away.

So congratulations to Keith Hernandez for achieving such a high honor.