Happy Anniversary Jay Horwitz

By Jay Horwitz

This isn’t an April Fools’ joke, although it very well could be. Today, I start my 46th year with the Mets. That’s crazy isn’t it. To be in one place for so long. I have worked in Queens for way more than half my life. No way possible, right?

I have so many people to thank. First of all, to Fred Wilpon for hiring an untested kid from Fairleigh Dickinson with no previous pro experience. I’m sure I tested his patience many a time. I am so grateful to Alex and Steve Cohen for the kindness they have showed me personally and the undying support they given our alumni program. Because of their backing we are able to return so many past heroes and to stage a fantastic celebration of David Wright’s career on July 19.

I have had to good luck with work with so many great people like the late Dennis D’Agostino and Shannon Forde and the dedicated and loyal Ethan Wilson. The Mets are so lucky to have some like Ethan still in their employ. The loss of Marc Levine still leaves a hole in my heart.

People always ask me who was my favorite Met? I always have refused to answer that because I have had so many favorites. I can honestly say that there was not one player coach or manger that I did not like in my time here.

The generosity of our 1986 team to me will never be forgotten. I always will be proud of how our 2001 club responded to the 9–11 Attacks. We helped NYC heal.

So, what’s next? Our fans deserve another World Series championship. It’s been a long time and my gut tells me this is going to be the year.