Cincinnati – Reflecting on a Legend
The Mets seemed to channel memories of a franchise icon yesterday and today.
This legend passed away on a Friday in 1982, shortly after Davey Johnson—who managed the Mets to their first championship in the 1969 World Series and another title in 1986—took the helm.
Daryl Strawberry shared, “Davey Johnson was the greatest manager I’ve ever played for. He allowed us to express ourselves. It’s a sorrowful day for the Mets in ’86.”
Johnson’s tenure ran from 1984 to 1990. His leadership led the Mets to a remarkable 108 regular-season victories and a championship in 1986.
He finished with the best managerial record in Mets history, going 595-417.
“He took a chance on me when I was just 19,” Dwight Gooden recalled. “Davy wasn’t afraid of making tough choices. I really think my career wouldn’t have existed without him.”
Keith Hernandez, who became the team’s first captain under Johnson, said, “No doubt, he saved my career. He understood the balance of being tough and being supportive. Playing for him was a true joy.”
Before managing, Johnson had a playing career that lasted 13 years. He also led teams like the Reds, Orioles, Dodgers, and Nationals over a span of 17 seasons.
In 2010, he was inducted into the Mets Hall of Fame.
“It’s a somber day for the organization,” said manager Carlos Mendoza, something I think resonates with many fans. “We look to return to winning ways.”
Team owners Steve and Alex Cohen noted that Johnson brought “quiet confidence and steadfast beliefs” to the franchise.
Ron Darling mentioned, “Making it to the major leagues is tough. Succeeding is even tougher, and we all need a guardian angel. Davey was mine.”
Mendoza said Garrett has a “possibility” of being activated from the injured list on the first day he qualifies. This would be significant following the Mets’ recent loss to the Reds.
Garrett is dealing with elbow inflammation but recently pitched a scoreless inning at Double A Binghamton. The Mets are assessing their bullpen situation before allowing his return.
In a recent streak, the Mets have made eight consecutive steals since 2009, marking 11 straight wins, which is impressive.
Brandon Nimmo, who contributed a sacrifice fly during three innings, recently saw a career-high 11-game hitting streak come to a close.
Jose Siri played nine innings for the first time in his rehab assignment, going 1-for-5 with a home run and three strikeouts while playing in center for Triple A Syracuse. He’s been recovering from a broken tibia since April and is, according to Mendoza, “making progress.”
Though activation for Siri doesn’t seem imminent, the team wants to ensure he can play consecutive games and build up his conditioning.
“He’s eager to return,” Mendoza noted about Siri, who performed well in his recent minor league outings.
