Two days after entering the Hall of Fame, Gary Carter, a cornerstone of the Mets’ 1986 World Championship team, was honored at Shea last night.
In Carter’s mind, though, his past accomplishments won’t mean as much unless he can use them to assist others.
As the 17-year-old gap since the Mets’ last world title grows larger by the day, Carter is characteristically buoyant about the organization’s future.
“I think they’re excited about what’s gonna transpire over the next couple of years,” he said. “I wouldn’t write the Mets off by any means.”
For Gary Carter Night, the Mets put their own pen to the history books. They honored Carter with a plaque similar to the Hall of Fame’s during a pre-game ceremony – but with a Met cap on his head. The club also gave Carter a silver Harley-Davidson, appropriate for his current duties as roving catching instructor.
“You may have entered the Hall of Fame as an Expo, but you remain in our hearts and minds a New York Met,” interim general manager Jim Duquette said in front of a crowd of 22,846.
Carter believes he and his 1986 brethren can help restore the glory of the franchise by instructing the future major leaguers. Last night, key components of the team congratulated Carter and reminded fans of a much better time.
At a time when the Mets are three years removed from their last playoff appearance and on the way to their second straight last-place finish, Carter takes his stature as seriously as his job.
“If I was playing today and Mickey Mantle came around, I’d want to bend his ear,” Carter said. “I’ve been through it. Now I’m in the Hall of Fame.
“I would not do it for any other reason than the Mets are concerned about the future.”
Through his travels, Carter has grown optimistic of the farm system. He spoke of how rookie center fielder Jeff Duncan, whom he called “something special,” bent his ear a few years ago. He sounds convinced brighter days are ahead.
“It might turn around next year,” Carter said. “You don’t have to have the highest payroll to win. There’s a lot of talent in the minor leagues. I’ve seen this talent. I’m encouraged.”
