A Sad Day in Mets History; Mike Piazza Retires...

Check out the full story at SI.com...

Here's an excerpt from SI.com:

"Within the eight years I spent in New York, I was able to take a different look at the game of baseball," Piazza said. "I wasn't just a young kid that was wet behind the ears anymore -- I was learning from other veteran guys like Johnny Franco, who taught me how to deal with the pressures of playing in New York, and Al Leiter, who knew what it took to win a world championship." ...

"Last but certainly not least, I can't say goodbye without thanking the fans," Piazza said. "I can't recall a time in my career where I didn't feel embraced by all of you. Los Angeles, San Diego, Oakland and Miami -- whether it was at home or on the road, you were all so supportive over the years.

"But I have to say that my time with the Mets wouldn't have been the same without the greatest fans in the world. One of the hardest moments of my career, was walking off the field at Shea Stadium and saying goodbye. My relationship with you made my time in New York the happiest of my career and for that, I will always be grateful."

Getting Mike Piazza was the deal that made the Mets an actual ball club again. During those years in the '90s, we had kind of an awful team. '97 saw us break out a bit, but it was the acquisition of Mike Piazza in 1998 that put the Mets back on the map. He was the anchor that allowed Edgardo Alfonso, Rey Ordonez, and John Olerud shine. Piazza is how the Mets got to the Series in 2000. Piazza hit the home run to beat the Braves after 9/11. Mike Piazza made the Mets fashionable again. Current Mets like Carlos Delgado, Johan Santana, Carlos Beltran, probably wouldn't be playing here if not for Mike Piazza. We would not have the best-ever anti-Chant for Chipper Jones if not for Mike Piazza (Larry. LA-rry.)

Mike Piazza will always have a very special place in my heart. Right next to Rusty Staub as one of all-time favorites. I'm sorry to see his career come to an end. He's always been a classy guy and a great ballplayer. Now I just hope he decides to go into the hall as a Met. Seaver needs company, Mike!