Former New York Mets player Ray Knight inadvertently used profanity during a live television broadcast while discussing the camaraderie of his 1986 World Series championship team. Knight, who was present at Citi Field for the team's reunion, made the remark to SNY reporter Steve Gelbs.
"It’s just we hugged,” Knight said. “I had about four or five guys on the team that gave me a kiss on the cheek and I kissed a couple guys on the cheek. People can think what they want to think, but I don’t give a f–k.”
The unexpected expletive elicited a chuckle from former Met Daniel Murphy, who was in the SNY broadcast booth at the time.
Knight then added, “But I do know one thing, I like going to war with those men.”
Knight is widely remembered for his role in the Mets' 1986 World Series victory, particularly for scoring the winning run in Game 6 against the Boston Red Sox. His run was facilitated by an infamous error by Boston first baseman Bill Buckner. Mookie Wilson, who hit the game-winning ground ball in that same game, also attended the 40th anniversary celebration.
Wilson described the 1986 Mets team as "special," noting the diverse personalities and cultures that managed to play in harmony. "We found a way to win. We all wanted to win," Wilson said. "Teams and players in general are defined by their expectations and people expected us to win. And we expected us to win."
The Mets honored the 1986 championship squad before their game against the Miami Marlins on Saturday. Attendees were introduced on the field and stood at second base. Members of the team also participated in interviews on the SNY broadcast before and during the game.