Amazin' Daily Briefing: January 26th, 2025
In today’s Amazin’ Daily Briefing, explore key moments from Mets history, catch up on our latest posts, and dive into fresh insights from our writer's latest opinion piece!
On This Day in Mets History
Cover Stories
- 2007: Get to Work
- 2016: Amazin' Offseason, What Took So Long?
- 2020: Second to None!, Family Guy
Born on this date:
- Andres Torres (1978)
Transactions:
- January 26, 2000: New York Mets signed free agent Kurt Abbott (from the Colorado Rockies).
- January 26, 2004: New York Mets traded Jaime Cerda to the Kansas City Royals for Shawn Sedlacek.
- January 26, 2005: New York Mets traded Ian Bladergroen to the Boston Red Sox for Doug Mientkiewicz.
- January 26, 2009: New York Mets signed free agent Jon Switzer (from the Boston Red Sox).
Trivia Question of The Day:
During the Pittsburgh drug trials of 1985, Keith Hernandez testified about his involvement in the cocaine scandal. What was the length of his initial suspension from Major League Baseball?
The Pittsburgh drug trials stemmed from a federal investigation into cocaine trafficking in Pittsburgh, which unexpectedly revealed drug use among professional athletes, including MLB players. This investigation began with the arrest of a drug dealer, Curtis Strong, who was a clubhouse attendant for the Pittsburgh Pirates.
Strong provided names of players involved in drug use, leading to a high-profile trial. Several players testified, admitting to cocaine use, which led to MLB Commissioner Peter Ueberroth taking significant action against drug use in baseball. This included suspensions, fines, and mandatory drug education programs for players. The trials were a turning point for MLB, shining a spotlight on the issue of drug abuse in sports and leading to stricter drug policies in the league.
"Each time I drew on it wasn't as enjoyable. It was more in control of me. Honestly, I felt like I was a demon"- Keith Hernandez -1985
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Random Player Spotlight
Wilmer Flores
Born: August 6, 1991 Valencia, Venezuela
Years with Mets: 2013 - 2018
581 games. 68 HR, 253 RBI, 262 avg, 214 Runs, 3 SB
Trivia Answer
Keith Hernandez was initially suspended for one year. However, the suspension was commuted with the condition that he donate 10% of his 1986 salary to drug-abuse prevention programs, complete 100 hours of drug-related community service each year for two years, and submit to random drug testing for the rest of his career. These conditions allowed him to not miss any playing time
Top 5 Mets Moments of 2024
At Amazin' Day, the Mets reflected on their remarkable 2024 season before shifting their focus to 2025. What began with early doubts turned into a spectacular year filled with unforgettable moments that will forever hold a special place in the hearts of Mets fans. Here are the top five moments that defined the Mets' magical run:
1. Pete Alonso's Playoff Clincher (October 3, 2024)
In what might have been his last at-bat in a Mets uniform, Pete Alonso delivered when it mattered most. Facing elimination in the Wild Card Series against the Milwaukee Brewers, Alonso hit a three-run homer in the ninth inning to turn a 2-0 deficit into a 3-2 lead, clinching the series and keeping the Mets' season alive.
2. Francisco Lindor's Go-Ahead Homer (September 30, 2024)
With the regular season on the line, Francisco Lindor became the hero of Game 161 against the Atlanta Braves. His go-ahead home run in the top of the ninth inning secured a playoff berth for the Mets, turning a nail-biting game into a celebration of resilience and teamwork.
3. The London Series Double Play (June 9, 2024)
In a historic game in London against the Philadelphia Phillies, Luis Torrens executed a game-ending 2-3 double play with bases loaded, preventing a sweep and securing a memorable win on international soil.
4. Francisco Alvarez's Walk-off (September, 2024)
Young catcher Francisco Alvarez, enduring a tough year, broke through with a crucial home run against the Baltimore Orioles. His 421-foot shot on a 3-0 count in a tie game showcased the emergence of a new Mets star, giving fans hope for the future and highlighting Alvarez's potential as a game-changer.
5. Sean Manaea's Playoff Performance (October, 2024)
Sean Manaea, who has reinvented himself with the Mets, pitched a gem in Game 3 of the NLDS against the Phillies. His seven innings of one-run ball shifted momentum in the Mets' favor, showcasing his growth from a reclamation project to a postseason hero.
The 2024 season for the Mets was a narrative of overcoming odds, from a dismal start to an unforgettable playoff run. These moments capture the essence of a team that not only played baseball but also captured the imagination and loyalty of fans, proving that in baseball, as in life, the most incredible stories often come from where you least expect them.
Honorable Mentions:
- Francisco Lindor's Home Run in Toronto (September 11, 2024)
- Mark Vientos' Walk-Off Against the Cardinals (April 28, 2024
- Francisco Lindor's Grand Slam Against the Phillies (October 9, 2024)
