The New York Mets are set to honor legendary broadcaster Howie Rose with a special retirement ceremony before their final regular-season home game against the Philadelphia Phillies on Sunday, September 20. Rose, who has been a prominent voice for the team for nearly four decades, will officially retire at the conclusion of the club's home schedule this season.
The ceremony aims to recognize Rose's significant career contributions and his lasting impact on the organization and its fanbase. For many generations of Mets fans, Rose's voice has been synonymous with the team's memorable moments. His signature sign-off, "Put it in the books," was a familiar phrase after victories.
Rose, 72, grew up as a Mets fan in Queens and began calling games for the team in 1987. He has served as the lead play-by-play voice on radio broadcasts since 2006. Mets owners Steve and Alex Cohen described Rose as more than just a broadcaster, calling him "the soundtrack of summer and the voice behind some of the most memorable moments in our history." They added that his "love for baseball and this organization has come through in every call, creating a connection with Mets fans that few broadcasters ever achieve." The owners also stated that Rose is "part of the fabric of this franchise" and expressed their pride in celebrating his career.
The first 15,000 fans attending the September 20 game will receive a "Put it in the books" notebook and scorecard as a memento. Fans have previously shown their appreciation, with some holding signs for Rose during games.
