Hernandez, 68, shined as a first baseman throughout his 16-year major league career. He made his professional debut in 1974 with the St. Louis Cardinals, with whom he won a World Series in 1982, an MVP in 1979 and two All-Star appearances.

He later migrated to the New York Mets, with whom he again contributed to win one more World Series in 1986 and three more All-Star nominations. With both the Mets and Cardinals, he maintained the tradition for 11 consecutive years of winning the Golden Glove as a first baseman. A true legend.

Keith Hernandez’s unexpected confession after his number was retired with the Mets

The number 17 will never again be worn by a player wearing the New York Mets jersey. This is an honor that very few have access to, like Keith Hernandez, who received this tribute from the Metros. At the press conference prior to his trip to Citi Field where the ceremony took place, Hernandez spoke candidly to the media.

“It’s very touching. It’s a good moment.I’m not going to make it, Gare,” said Hernandez to his media and broadcasting partner,“You know that.I did my speech this morning. I’m a great procrastinator: I woke up I believe 8 o’clock, 8:30, had coffee. And then I sat down for around an hour, did this speech.”, stated Keith according to New York Post.

Hernandez’s emotion, for his almost impromptu speech at the retirement of his number, was again on display as he shared what he felt when he saw New York Mets fans gather to recognize his contribution to the team:“I just drove in right now, and I see all the No. 17 jerseys out there, which was kind of touching and nice“.

In his seven seasons with the Mets, Hernandez became the rag tag bunch’s unquestionable leader and one of New York sports most recognizable faces. Known for his left-handed swing, his tough defensive plays, and his command of first base, Hernandez won over New York fans like no other.

In his time with the Mets the legendary captain won only one World Series in 1986, even he will admit it should have been more, he was a 3-time Mets all-star, and eventually was inducted in the New York Mets Hall of Fame. Here are 5 of the best moments in Keith Hernandez’s Mets career.

5. 3-5-4 double play

As rare as they come in 1986 the year the Mets won it all, Hernandez completed the double play by getting to a Carl Willis bunt and firing to third base to get the runner out.

4. 1,000th RBI in 1988

Hernandez got his 1,000th career RBI as a Met in the 1988 season, against the Atlanta Braves and with the bases loaded he hit a grand slam to right field off of Charlie Puleo.

3. All-Star Met

Hernandez was an example of leadership and tenacity, and it can best be summed up in his three All-Star appearances as a Met in 1984, 1986, and 1987. Hernandez was a top first baseman and he showed it in the league’s mid-season big stage.

2. 2,000th career hit

Against the Chicago Cubs in September of 1987 the team captain would obtain his 2,000th career hit with an infield single, it was his third hit of the game and a milestone for the Mets captain.

1. Game 7 comeback

In 1986 the Mets were once again 3-0 down to the Boston Red Sox, the captain needed to come up big, and he did, hitting a two-run single in the bottom of the 6th of Game 7 to get the Mets on the board. They would go on to win the series and become a team of New York legend.