Broadcaster Mike Breen, known for his play-by-play calls for the New York Knicks, recently shared an anecdote from his early days as a journalist covering the New York Mets. During a 1986 playoff run, Breen, then a reporter for WNBC radio, found himself intimidated by Mets first baseman Keith Hernandez.
Appearing in the SNY booth during a recent game between the Mets and the Milwaukee Brewers, Breen recounted the experience. He explained that despite Hernandez's reputation as a cooperative interviewee, Breen, then 25 and feeling he looked much younger, was nervous. When he approached Hernandez to ask a question, he addressed him as "Mr. Hernandez." Breen realized this was a misstep at the time, noting that Hernandez did not answer his question. The other beat writers, he recalled, were even "glad" that the radio reporters were not present.
Breen also shared a memory from Game 6 of the 1986 World Series between the Mets and the Boston Red Sox. While in the Red Sox radio booth at Shea Stadium, Breen admitted he "lost any professional conduct" and celebrated exuberantly when Mookie Wilson's ground ball went through Bill Buckner's legs in the 10th inning. The Red Sox announcers were reportedly "not happy" with his reaction.
Reflecting on his recent experience sitting in on the SNY pregame show and then in the TV booth for a few innings, Breen expressed his excitement. "I can’t believe I’m sitting here. I’m like a kid in a candy store," he said. He noted his pleasure in meeting current players like pitcher Sean Manaea and appreciating other players such as Zac Thornton. The opportunity to be on the field, he added, was a "big deal" for him.