The New York Mets, known for their captivating play-by-play announcers, recently showcased another reason why they are beloved in baseball. Following a nail-biting victory against the Milwaukee Brewers in the wild-card series, a touching scene unfolded aboard the team plane, highlighting the camaraderie between players and their iconic radio voice, Howie Rose. The moment, sparked by Pete Alonso’s game-changing home run, culminated in a spontaneous standing ovation for Rose, a testament to his enduring connection with the team and its fans.
The Mets entered Thursday night’s game facing elimination, trailing the Brewers 2-0 in the late innings. With two outs in the ninth, the pressure was immense. Stepping up to the plate was Pete Alonso, the Mets’ power-hitting first baseman. In a moment that will be etched in Mets’ history, Alonso launched a three-run homer, sending the team and its fanbase into euphoria. The dramatic swing not only propelled the Mets to a 3-2 lead but also secured their advancement to the National League Division Series (NLDS) against the Philadelphia Phillies. The final score was 4-2, but it was Alonso’s homer that stole the show and sparked celebrations that extended beyond the ballpark.
As the team embarked on their flight to Philadelphia, the emotional high from the victory was still palpable. Unbeknownst to Howie Rose, sitting near the front of the plane, a special tribute was being planned. Rose, who has been the radio voice of the Mets since 1995 and a lifelong fan himself, delivered an electrifying call of Alonso’s home run. His passionate description, broadcast across the New York airwaves on 880 AM, perfectly captured the magnitude of the moment. “It’s gone! He did it! He did it! Pete Alonso with the most memorable home run of his career!” Rose exclaimed, his voice filled with excitement. “Pete Alonso keeps this fairy-tale season going with the fairy-tale swing of his career! 3-2 New York!”
The team decided to replay this iconic call over the plane’s speakers. Initially, Rose appeared shy and even covered his ears, but as the call reached its crescendo, the Mets players erupted in applause, rising to their feet in a spontaneous standing ovation. This heartfelt gesture acknowledged not only the significance of Alonso’s home run but also Rose’s role in bringing these moments to life for Mets fans for decades.
In a touching exchange, Rose turned to Pete Alonso, pointed, and saluted him, recognizing the player who had provided the on-field magic that sparked this unique tribute. Alonso responded with a warm embrace, cementing the bond between the player and the voice that narrates their journey. This scene encapsulated the spirit of the Mets organization – a team that values its history, its players, and the voices that connect them with their passionate fanbase.
Howie Rose’s career is filled with memorable calls, earning him a place in the Mets Hall of Fame alongside TV broadcaster Gary Cohen. His resume includes iconic moments like Mike Piazza’s post-9/11 home run and Stéphane Matteau’s Stanley Cup-clinching goal for the New York Rangers in 1994. Alonso’s home run and the subsequent standing ovation will undoubtedly be another cherished chapter in Rose’s storied career, further solidifying his legendary status among New York sports broadcasters. The Mets’ journey to the NLDS, fueled by Alonso’s heroics and celebrated by a standing ovation for their iconic announcer, is a story that resonates deeply with fans and exemplifies the emotional connection inherent in baseball.
