The New York Mets have been home to some of baseball’s most electrifying talents. From power hitters to masterful pitchers, their history is dotted with players who have left unforgettable marks on the franchise and the game.
Spanning decades, their roster has featured stars who brought excitement and passion to Queens. Some forged records, others became fan favorites, but all contributed to the unique spirit that defines the team.
Their MLB history has been shaped by players whose talent and determination left lasting impressions. From iconic leaders to overlooked stars, their achievements continue to define the team’s identity and passion for the game.
25. Cleon Jones
Cleon Jones (Getty Images)
In the annals of Mets history, Cleon Jones stands out as a vital contributor to the team’s unlikely 1969 championship run. His consistent bat and clutch performances, including a remarkable .340 average that season, anchored a lineup that shocked the baseball world.
His steady presence in the outfield and timely hitting helped transform the Mets from perennial underdogs to World Series champions, leaving a legacy defined by grit and poise under pressure.
24. Jose Reyes
Jose Reyes (Photo by John Amis/Getty Images)
Few players ignited the crowd and energized the clubhouse like Jose Reyes did during his decade-plus with the Mets. His blend of blazing speed, aggressive baserunning, and offensive versatility made him a nightmare for pitchers.
His multiple league-leading triples and stolen base totals underscored his dynamic impact, while his fiery leadership helped shape the Mets’ identity in the 2000s, bridging a rebuilding era with renewed hope.
23. Mookie Wilson
Mookie Wilson (Photo by Focus on Sport/Getty Images)
When the stakes were highest, Mookie Wilson thrived. His name is forever linked to one of baseball’s most dramatic moments, but his value extended well beyond that famous ground ball.
His ability to apply pressure with speed, combined with his knack for timely hits, made him a key catalyst for the Mets throughout the 1980s. Defensively reliable and offensively opportunistic, he embodied the scrappy spirit that defined the championship Mets teams.
22. Edgardo Alfonzo
Edgardo Alfonzo (Photo by George Gojkovich/Getty Images)
Edgardo “Fonzie” Alfonzo’s career with the Mets reflected a blend of versatility and consistency rarely seen in the infield. Whether manning third base or second, his smooth glove work paired seamlessly with a bat capable of producing both average and power.
His All-Star selection and Silver Slugger award in the late 90s highlighted his importance during a period when the Mets sought to reclaim their competitive edge. His steady contributions helped pave the way for future success.
21. David Cone
David Cone (Photo by John Iacono /Sports Illustrated via Getty Images)
Commanding the mound with precision and poise, David Cone was a cornerstone of Mets pitching during the late 80s and early 90s. His standout 1988 season, boasting a 20–3 record and a 2.22 ERA, established him as one of the National League’s premier pitchers. Known for his diverse pitch arsenal and sharp control, he also set a franchise record with 19 strikeouts in a single game, exemplifying his dominance and competitive fire.
20. Roger McDowell
Roger McDowell (Photo by George Gojkovich/Getty Images)
Known for his intimidating presence in the bullpen, Roger McDowell became one of the Mets’ most reliable relief pitchers during the 1980s. His sharp slider and fierce competitiveness helped stabilize late innings, particularly during the team’s 1986 championship season.
His ability to shut down opposing hitters in high-pressure situations made him a trusted weapon, and his contributions were critical in maintaining leads and closing out games that fueled the Mets’ postseason success.
19. Gil Hodges
Gil Hodges (Getty Images)
Gil Hodges’ impact on the Mets transcended his playing career, as he was the managerial architect behind the franchise’s first World Series triumph in 1969. As a player, he was a formidable first baseman, but his true legacy lies in his leadership and ability to mold a group of misfits into champions.
His steady guidance and strategic acumen earned him respect across baseball, and his influence remains an integral chapter in Mets lore, symbolizing the triumph of teamwork and resilience.
18. Wally Backman
Wally Backman (Photo by Focus on Sport/Getty Images)
Wally Backman was the gritty, scrappy infielder whose hustle and defensive savvy brought energy to the Mets in the 1980s. While not always in the spotlight, his contributions were invaluable in key moments, especially as a reliable second baseman.
His quick reflexes and baseball IQ complemented the Mets’ aggressive style, making him a vital piece in the team’s push toward the 1986 World Series championship. Though his career had ups and downs, his tenacity epitomized the Mets’ blue-collar identity.
17. Dave Kingman
Dave Kingman (Getty Images)
Few Mets players commanded attention like Dave Kingman, whose prodigious power earned him a reputation as one of baseball’s most fearsome sluggers. Known for launching mammoth home runs, he electrified fans despite a sometimes uneven batting average.
His ability to change the course of a game with a single swing made him a constant threat and a fan favorite during his tenure in the late 1970s and early 80s. His legacy is one of raw power and unforgettable moments at the plate.
16. Lenny Dykstra
Lenny Dykstra (Photo by Ronald C. Modra/Getty Images)
Lenny Dykstra was the embodiment of Mets grit and determination during the late 80s and early 90s. Known affectionately as “Nails,” his fearless approach at the plate and in the field galvanized teammates and fans alike.
His knack for clutch hitting and his relentless work ethic helped solidify the Mets as contenders. Beyond the numbers, his fiery personality and leadership forged a competitive spirit that resonated through the clubhouse, making him a beloved and influential figure in franchise history.
15. Jacob deGrom
Jacob deGrom (Photo by Eric Espada/Getty Images)
Jacob deGrom’s meteoric rise transformed the Mets’ pitching landscape in the late 2010s and early 2020s. Known for his devastating fastball and pinpoint control, he quickly established himself as one of baseball’s elite arms, capturing back-to-back Cy Young Awards in 2018 and 2019.
His ability to dominate lineups with both power and finesse, even under the intense spotlight of New York, revitalized the Mets’ rotation and gave fans a glimpse of perennial excellence on the mound. Despite injury setbacks, his competitive spirit and dominance remain a benchmark for pitching greatness in franchise history.
14. Al Leiter
Al Leiter (Photo by Focus on Sport/Getty Images)
Al Leiter was a steady, veteran presence in the Mets’ rotation throughout the 1990s and early 2000s. His left-handed finesse pitching and consistent ability to eat innings made him invaluable during seasons of transition for the team.
His postseason performances, including his contributions to the 2000 National League Championship Series run, showcased his capacity to rise in crucial moments. Beyond statistics, his professionalism and clubhouse leadership helped anchor a Mets squad striving to reclaim contender status.
13. Doc Gooden
Dwight Gooden (Photo by Focus on Sport via Getty Images)
Dwight “Doc” Gooden’s electric arm and youthful dominance marked one of the most exhilarating eras in Mets history. Bursting onto the scene as a teenager in the mid-1980s, his 1985 rookie season remains legendary, featuring a 2.04 ERA and 276 strikeouts.
His raw talent, blending velocity and movement, made him nearly untouchable and earned him the Cy Young Award. Though his career was marred by personal struggles, his impact on the Mets’ 1986 World Series championship and his role as a symbol of potential and promise resonate deeply in franchise lore.
12. Bud Harrelson
Bud Harrelson (Getty Images)
Bud Harrelson was the defensive backbone of the Mets during the 1960s and 70s, anchoring the shortstop position with exceptional glove work and leadership. His gritty style and steady play provided stability up the middle, often overshadowing his modest offensive numbers.
His baseball IQ and clutch performances in critical games, especially during the 1969 championship season, cemented his role as a cornerstone of the team’s identity. He later returned as a coach and manager, further embedding himself into Mets history.
11. Howard Johnson
Howard Johnson (Photo by Focus on Sport/Getty Images)
“HoJo” was the Mets’ power hitter throughout the late 80s and early 90s, blending slugging prowess with a solid glove at third base and second base. Known for his thunderous home runs and ability to drive in runs, Howard Johnson was a three-time All-Star who energized the lineup with his bat and versatility.
His knack for timely hitting and imposing presence in the batter’s box made him a feared opponent. His contributions were vital during seasons where the Mets sought to build upon their championship pedigree.
10. John Franco
John Franco (Al Bello /Allsport)
John Franco’s name is synonymous with Mets bullpen dominance in the 1990s and early 2000s. A crafty left-handed closer, Franco’s pinpoint control and poise under pressure helped him rack up 329 saves with the Mets—a franchise record.
His ability to neutralize opposing hitters in critical late-game situations earned him multiple All-Star nods and the respect of teammates and opponents alike. Beyond the numbers, Franco’s quiet leadership and durability made him a cornerstone of the Mets’ relief corps for over a decade.
9. Carlos Beltran
Carlos Beltrán (Photo by Benjamin Solomon/Getty Images)
Carlos Beltran brought a rare combination of power, speed, and defensive excellence to the Mets during his tenure from 2005 to 2011. A switch-hitter with a cannon arm, he was a five-time All-Star and a Gold Glove winner who could change the course of a game with his bat or glove.
His postseason heroics, including a memorable 2006 playoff run, elevated the Mets’ competitive status and solidified his place as one of the franchise’s most electrifying talents. His dynamic skill set made him an all-around threat and a fan favorite.
8. Bob Ojeda
Bob Ojeda (Photo by Focus on Sport/Getty Images)
Bob Ojeda was a pivotal left-hander in the Mets’ championship rotation during the mid-1980s. His steady pitching and ability to perform in clutch moments contributed significantly to the 1986 World Series title.
His style blended solid control with a competitive edge, often rising to the occasion in pressure-filled games. Though sometimes overshadowed by flashier teammates, his consistent performances were instrumental in maintaining balance within one of baseball’s most memorable pitching staffs.
7. Gary Carter
Gary Carter (Getty Images)
Gary Carter, “The Kid,” was more than just a catcher—he was the emotional and strategic leader behind the plate for the 1986 Mets. Renowned for his defensive prowess and powerful bat, his leadership galvanized the team during their championship season.
His charisma, work ethic, and clutch hitting made him a five-time All-Star and Hall of Famer. His influence extended beyond stats; he was the heartbeat of the team, setting the tone every game and inspiring teammates to perform at their best.
6. Jerry Koosman
Jerry Koosman (Photo by Focus on Sport/Getty Images)
Jerry Koosman anchored the Mets’ pitching staff in the late 1960s and early 1970s, playing a crucial role in the franchise’s first pennant run in 1969. His ability to mix pitches and maintain composure on the mound made him a reliable ace.
His tenacity and leadership were vital as the Mets transitioned from underdogs to contenders. His postseason performances and steady presence helped establish the foundation for the team’s eventual World Series success.
5. David Wright
David Wright (Photo by Doug Pensinger/Getty Images)
David Wright was the heart and soul of the Mets for over a decade, embodying leadership, consistency, and passion. A seven-time All-Star and two-time Gold Glove winner, he was the face of the franchise during its rebuilding years.
His smooth swing and clutch performances made him a dependable offensive force, while his ability to inspire teammates earned him the captain’s “C.” Injuries shortened his career, but his legacy as one of the Mets’ all-time greats remains untarnished.
4. Keith Hernandez
Keith Hernandez (Photo by Jonathan Daniel/Getty Images)
Keith Hernandez brought a combination of defensive mastery and savvy hitting that made him a Mets legend in the 1980s. His nine Gold Gloves and ability to read the game set a new standard at first base.
His leadership and calm presence helped guide the 1986 World Series champions, earning him a reputation as both a cerebral player and clubhouse cornerstone. Beyond the field, his media presence and charisma kept his influence alive long after his playing days ended.
3. Mike Piazza
Mike Piazza (Photo by Focus on Sport/Getty Images)
Mike Piazza’s arrival in New York heralded a new era of offensive firepower for the Mets. Known as one of the greatest hitting catchers in baseball history, his powerful bat combined with his defensive skills made him a five-time All-Star with the team.
His knack for clutch hitting energized the lineup during the late 90s and early 2000s, and his charisma made him a fan favorite. His induction into the Hall of Fame cemented his status as one of the franchise’s iconic figures.
2. Darryl Strawberry
Darryl Strawberry (Photo by Focus on Sport/Getty Images)
Darryl Strawberry’s blend of prodigious power and flamboyant personality made him one of the most exciting Mets of the 1980s and early 90s. A key contributor to the 1986 championship team, his home runs and RBIs often turned the tide in crucial games.
Though his career was marked by ups and downs, his raw talent and moments of brilliance left an indelible mark on the franchise. his journey is a story of talent, turmoil, and undeniable impact.
1. Tom Seaver
Tom Seaver (Photo by Focus On Sport/Getty Images)
Tom Seaver is perhaps the greatest player in Mets history and one of baseball’s all-time pitching legends. “Tom Terrific” redefined excellence on the mound, combining power, control, and durability.
A three-time Cy Young Award winner and Hall of Famer, Seaver led the Mets to their first World Series title in 1969 and remains the franchise leader in numerous pitching categories. His dominance and work ethic set a gold standard, inspiring generations of Mets players and fans alike.
