The Mets radio booth just lost its heart. Sunday was the final game for broadcast legend Howie Rose. It was an emotional exit for a man who has been a voice for this team since 1995. While the team lost to the Phillies, the real story was the 72-year-old announcer hanging up his microphone. It feels like the end of an era for anyone who grew up listening to him.
A Heavy Goodbye at Citi Field
The atmosphere at the ballpark was thick with emotion. After the final out, Rose received caps tipped by Mets players who came out of the dugout, according to ABC7 New York. The crowd joined in as well. During the eighth inning, the stadium played “Hello, Goodbye” by The Beatles. Rose’s voice even cracked as he described the scene to the listeners. He was clearly moved by the tribute. “[Rangers great] Mark Messier taught me a long time ago, you ever get into a situation where you think you’re going to be emotional, pack some Kleenex,” he said, joking that he required tissues.
The Connection to the Fans
Rose isn’t just a guy reading play-by-play. He is part of the team’s identity. In a Saturday postgame show, Rose told listeners how much the fans mean to him. Shea Stadium’s upper deck was where he recalled growing up. He felt like a “kindred spirit” to the fans. According to the New York Post, Rose even struggled to hide his emotions during the ninth inning on air. He didn’t want to say a permanent farewell. He told the crowd, “It’s not goodbye as far as I’m concerned.” He plans to be around for big days like Opening Day or Hall of Fame ceremonies.
Plans for the Future
The team had a big celebration planned for Sunday, but the weather ruined it. The Mets decided to move the ceremony to the start of next season. Per ABC7 New York, the team will now honor him during Opening Weekend 2027. This delay is a bummer, but Rose is staying positive. He has been part of the Mets broadcast in some way since 1987. Even if he is stepping away from the booth, he is not leaving the Mets family behind.
