Darryl Strawberry Expresses Gratitude for Presidential Pardon

Darryl Strawberry, the former MLB star and New York Mets icon, recently shared his appreciation for President Donald Trump, following the announcement of his pardon. The White House confirmed this on Friday, noting that Strawberry’s turnaround from struggles with substance abuse played a role in the decision.

“Thank you President @realdonaldtrump for my full pardon and for bringing closure to this part of my life so I can be truly free and clean from all of my past,” Strawberry expressed on Instagram, alongside several pictures of their time together.

He recounted a surprising moment from the previous day. While at home caring for his recovering wife, his phone rang with a call from Washington, D.C. To his astonishment, it was Trump on the line, reminiscing about Strawberry’s baseball career. During their conversation, Trump offered forgiveness for Strawberry’s past, an act that left him feeling overwhelmed with gratitude. He noted, “I thanked God for freeing me from my past and helping me become a better person, husband, and father.” This experience, he said, reinforced his faith and commitment to his beliefs.

Strawberry emphasized that this isn’t about politics. It’s a personal story about a friendship. “God used him as a vessel to set me free forever!” he declared, feeling deeply humbled.

Strawberry’s later career wasn’t without challenges—he faced legal issues, including a notorious arrest in 1999 linked to soliciting sex from an undercover police officer. Following that incident, he was suspended for 140 days and had to complete community service. He later tested positive for cocaine, which led to an indefinite suspension in 2000 and subsequent prison time for additional violations.

Despite these struggles, he met his current wife at a recovery event and has made significant changes in his life. Interestingly enough, he was also a contestant on “Celebrity Apprentice,” a show hosted by Trump, back in 2010.

Throughout his nine-year career, Strawberry achieved an impressive batting average of .263 and became an eight-time All-Star, known for his power-hitting capabilities. He was a crucial player during the Mets’ 1986 World Series win and also contributed to the Yankees’ victories in 1996, 1998, and 1999.

Strawberry remains a significant figure in baseball history, often remembered for his resilience and remarkable journey.