Darryl Strawberry’s Emotional Number Retirement Ceremony at Citi Field

NEW YORK — The iconic baseball player Darryl Strawberry was at the center of an emotional event at Citi Field as the Mets retired his No. 18 in a ceremony filled with poignant moments. Addressing a crowd of 30,600 fans, Strawberry expressed deep regret for leaving the team 34 years prior and thanked the loyal supporters for their unwavering passion.

The No. 18 was honored by cutting it into the center-field grass while the famed home run apple was transformed into a “home run strawberry,” creating a touching tribute to Strawberry’s legacy. The atmosphere was further amplified as the Beatles’ classic “Strawberry Fields Forever” played over the loudspeakers, adding to the sentimental ambiance.

Among the attendees were former teammates, family members, and friends, including the legendary Dwight Gooden, whose own number had been retired earlier in the season. In a heartfelt 16-minute speech, Strawberry reflected on his career highs and lows, acknowledging the Mets fans as the greatest he had ever played in front of.

Just months before the ceremony, Strawberry faced a life-threatening health scare when he suffered a heart attack on the eve of his 62nd birthday. After being rushed to SSM Health St. Joseph Hospital, where his heart function was at 32%, Strawberry credited his wife, Tracy, for insisting on medical attention and ultimately saving his life.

Throughout his career, Strawberry amassed an impressive resume, with eight All-Star appearances and notable contributions to the Mets from 1983 to 1990. His departure from New York marked a tumultuous period in his life, as he struggled with personal demons and the pressures of stardom.

Reflecting on his past choices, Strawberry highlighted the influence of his teammates like Mookie Wilson and the late Gary Carter, whose examples he wished he had followed more closely. Despite his shortcomings, he expressed gratitude for the challenges he faced, crediting them for shaping him into the man he is today.

Mets owner Steve Cohen‘s commitment to honoring the team’s history was evident in the poignant ceremony, hinting at potential future retirements like that of David Wright‘s No. 5. The event served as a reminder of the Mets’ iconic moments and the individuals who have left a lasting impact on the franchise.

As Strawberry concluded his speech, he shared a message of resilience and personal growth, stemming from his tumultuous upbringing and struggles. The ceremony not only celebrated his baseball accomplishments but also his journey towards overcoming adversity and striving to be a better man.