Ron Darling Confident Keith Hernandez Will Return to SNY in 2026

New York, NY – Former New York Mets pitcher Ron Darling expressed confidence that Keith Hernandez, the beloved SNY analyst, will return to the broadcast booth in 2026. This comes after Hernandez’s contract is set to expire following the 2025 season.

“Oh, 100 percent,” Darling said regarding Hernandez’s future with SNY. “There’s no way that we can even do what we do without Keith. When Gary Cohen and I do the broadcast ourselves, it tends to get a little nerdy because we’re both a little nerdy by just who we are. And Keith lightens it up, surely.”

Darling’s comments reflect the strong rapport between the broadcast team. He added, “No one entertains better than Keith Hernandez.”

Hernandez, 71, signed a three-year contract extension in February 2023. He told The Post’s Mike Puma last week that he wants to continue his role in the booth. “My contract has run out, but I would love to continue in the booth. I enjoy what I do,” Hernandez stated.

Hernandez joined SNY at its launch in 2006 after previously working Mets games on MSG. He earned notoriety as a key player for the Mets, winning the 1979 National League Co-MVP award and playing on the last Mets team to win a World Series in 1986. Hernandez is recognized as a beloved figure among fans and is part of the ballclub’s Hall of Fame, with his No. 17 retired by the organization.

During his time at SNY, Hernandez has been awarded three Emmy Awards, receiving the title of “Sports Analyst” in 2009, 2012, and 2015. The booth consisting of Gary Cohen, Keith Hernandez, and Ron Darling is often praised as one of the best local broadcast teams in Major League Baseball.