Last weekend, the New York Mets had their Old Timers’ Day, in which some of the franchise’s most iconic players shared the field for a few innings.
They shared more than just a few frames: they shared laughs, great moments, and memories of the past.
Overall, former players such as Mike Piazza, Al Leiter, Johan Santana, Cliff Floyd, Bobby Valentine, and many more had a time to remember on August 27.
Former players, the ones that made the Mets who they are today, all agree on one thing: they feel valued and respected again.
“Several old-timers spoke today about feeling welcome with the Mets in a way they hadn’t in a long time. Ray Knight made the subtext of this Old-Timers Day explicit: ‘I love the New York Mets. I don’t like the Wilpons,'” The Athletic’s Tim Britton tweeted.
Several old-timers spoke today about feeling welcome with the Mets in a way they hadn't in a long time. Ray Knight made the subtext of this Old-Timers Day explicit: "I love the New York Mets. I don't like the Wilpons."
— Tim Britton (@TimBritton) August 27, 2022
It’s obvious that the Wilpon family didn’t make a true effort to make former players and Mets legend feel welcome, valued, and loved.
Cohen Has Given Fans Their Pride Back
Ever since Steve Cohen took over the franchise a couple of years ago, he has brought pride back to the franchise.
Under his guidance, the Mets are leading the NL East and look poised to make a deep playoff run.
He paid for elite players (Francisco Lindor, Max Scherzer and Starling Marte are perfect examples), and he improved the team’s coaching, player development, and scouting staffs.
He brought in the right people at the right time.
And, as a lifelong Mets fan, he is doing everything he can to make fans fall in love with the Mets again.
This goes for former players, too.
Overall, the Mets franchise has a great present and an excellent future.
NEXT: The Mets Are Welcoming A Special Guest On Tuesday