It’s sad when a star athlete can no longer play the game. It’s just as sad when fans lose their hero.
David Wright has fought the good fight, battling shoulder, back, and neck injuries. After weeks of rehab and three surgeries–all the while without baseball activity–Wright never gave up on his quest for a comeback.
But behind the scenes, Mets’ owners had a decision to make. Wright was set to earn $3.21 in September. Insurance would cover 75% of that amount if the Mets kept him on the disabled list. But if the team activated Wright–even for one game–the Mets would have to cover 100% of the cost.
Rumors swirled that the team wouldn’t activate Wright. If so, the Mets would be making ‘a business decision.’
Thankfully, that is not to be. During a tear-jerking press-conference, an emotional David Wright announced he would return to the field–one last time–in Mets’ Blue and Orange. The date will be September 29th against the Marlins. Wright will start at third base.
Yes, Wright could have announced his retirement earlier this season. Doing that would have avoided weeks of rehab. But “could have’s” don’t apply to David Wright.
Wright feels he owes the fans, the franchise, and himself to make one, final appearance.
It’s sad when a star athlete can no longer play the game. And it’s just as sad when fans lose their hero.
For those who believe Wright’s name is synonymous with injury, I say NO! Remember him for having one hell of a career.
–I’ll remember David Wright for making one of the best catches in baseball history. It was against the Padres in 2005–an over-the-shoulder, bare-handed catch, preventing a blooper into left field.
–I’ll remember David Wright for ‘that’ home run in 2015. He hit a 428-foot shot in his first at-bat after missing the first three months of the season.
–I’ll remember David Wright as one of the greatest position players in Mets’ history.
–I’ll remember David Wright for being ranked second in franchise WAR and home runs, and being top-ranked in hits, RBI, runs, walks, and extra base hits.
Courtesy: Mets101.com
What more could you want in a captain? Well, I’ll give you more. Wright’s legacy extends well beyond the numbers.
–David Wright presented himself well, on- and off-the-field, always holding himself accountable.
–David Wright always put the team first, setting an example for younger players.
–David Wright always respected the media and fans.
–David Wright always gave back to the community, particularly in work associated with his David Wright Foundation.
I idolize David Wright–as do many other Mets’ fans.
As a 4-year-old, I stumbled upon an old, beaten-up David Wright baseball card.
In elementary school, I began imitating Wright’s batting style.
I’ve requested jersey #5 every year that I’ve played.
I’ve always wanted to be just like David Wright. Even today, I feel the very same way.
Saturday, September 29th, Mets vs. Marlins. It will be a game to remember.
Thank you, Captain.
