RICH MACLEOD: the blog
Bachelors Degree in Digital Film & Video Production / Fan of the bad New York sports teams / Possible anger issues / rsmacleod@optonline.net
Why the Mets Have to Retire #8
Hall of Fame catcher Gary Carter passed away early yesterday evening after a valiant battle with brain cancer at the age of 57. In Decemeber of 1984 the New York Mets made the blockbuster trade to acquire arguably the best catcher of the decade which was the cog that was the final piece of an eventual championship team in 1986.
The only player number retired by the Mets is #41, Tom “The Franchise” Seaver’s number. I know that people have clamored for players like Keith Hernandez and Mike Piazza’s numbers to be retired and perhaps they will be in due time but I believe that the number this team should retired is #8. Gary spent just 5 seasons in New York and while his numbers dipped towards the end of his career, I believe it’s not all about statistics. Carter was great in his first two seasons and his “never say die” mentality not only inspired others but was on full display when down two runs, with two outs in the 10th inning facing elimination Gary singled to left field which led to the infamous “gets through Buckner” moment and a championship for New York. Gary Carter’s presence on the field and in the clubhouse led to a championship, some great thrills and changed the face of the franchise. That, in my opinion, is more than enough reason to retire Gary Carter’s number.
The Mets won the World Series 4 years before I was even born and I feel very strongly about this, so I’m sure that the Mets fans who have been around longer than me feel the same way if not stronger. This man was a hero and a role model to all and was the kind of person that I can only hope that my one day future children would resemble. The Mets play at home on Opening Day this season and I can think of no way to honor Gary Carter better than to have everyone on the Mets to wear #8 that day and retire the number following the game.
I’m not sure who, if anyone, will read this but I can only hope that the Wilpons, Sandy Alderson or anyone else in management will realize what I have and retire #8.
