Mets to Retire Jersey Numbers of Dwight Gooden and Darryl Strawberry

The former stars, both key figures in the 1986 World Series victory, will be honored in separate ceremonies this year, marking a significant recognition of the team's history.

The New York Mets will retire the jersey numbers of Dwight Gooden and Darryl Strawberry, two of the team's most iconic players, in separate ceremonies this year. Gooden's No. 16 will be retired on April 14 and Strawberry's No. 18 on June 1.
Both players were key figures in the Mets' 1986 World Series victory and are remembered for their on-field prowess as well as their off-field struggles with substance abuse.
Gooden, a four-time All-Star, won the National League Rookie of the Year and Cy Young Awards in his first two seasons with the Mets. Strawberry, an eight-time All-Star, remains the franchise leader with 252 career home runs.
Despite their personal issues and struggles, both players have expressed gratitude for their time with the Mets and the support they received from fans. They have also used their experiences to help others, with Gooden speaking at schools about the dangers of drugs and alcohol, and Strawberry working as a traveling minister.
The decision to retire their numbers is part of an effort by the Mets' new ownership to honor the team's history. Gooden and Strawberry will be the ninth and tenth players to have their numbers retired by the franchise.