The Best and Worst Play-by-Play Broadcasters in New York Mets History

The Best and Worst Play-by-Play Broadcasters in New York Mets History

The New York Mets, a beloved Major League Baseball team, have had their fair share of iconic voices that defined the game-day experience for fans. Over the years, these broadcasters brought life to the team’s play-by-play coverage, with some earning legendary status and others not so much. Here, we’ll take a look at three of the best and three of the worst play-by-play broadcasters in the Mets’ history.

The Best:

1. Gary Cohen

Gary Cohen has been the face of the Mets’ broadcast team since 1989. His insightful and well-spoken commentary has made him a fan favorite. Known for his articulate play-by-play and genuine passion for the game, Cohen’s voice is synonymous with Mets baseball. His professionalism combined with his knowledge of the game has earned him several accolades, including multiple New York Sportscaster of the Year awards.

2. Ralph Kiner

Ralph Kiner, who began broadcasting for the Mets in 1962, was a true Mets icon. As both a Hall of Fame player and a broadcaster, Kiner’s voice was legendary in the booth. His witty one-liners, humor, and vast knowledge of baseball made him an unforgettable figure. Even though he wasn’t a technical play-by-play announcer, his unique style and engaging personality made him beloved by Mets fans.

3. Bob Murphy

Bob Murphy, who called Mets games for 42 years, was known for his calming presence and clear delivery. His voice became a staple for generations of Mets fans. Murphy’s ability to paint a picture with his words and provide thoughtful commentary helped him become one of the most respected figures in baseball broadcasting. He earned the Hall of Fame’s Ford C. Frick Award for his outstanding career.

The Worst:

1. Ted Robinson

Ted Robinson’s time as a Mets broadcaster in the 1990s was not well-received by many fans. His overly flashy, sometimes exaggerated style failed to connect with the team’s fan base. His lack of a natural feel for the Mets and the game made him less credible to loyal listeners. Robinson eventually left the team after a brief stint, with many fans hoping for a change.

2. Shannon Hogan

Shannon Hogan, who replaced the legendary Gary Cohen for a brief period in the early 2010s, struggled to make a lasting impression. Critics noted her lack of deep baseball knowledge and somewhat mechanical delivery. Fans were critical of her inability to match the natural chemistry of her peers, making her tenure less memorable.

3. Jim Karvellas

Jim Karvellas served as a play-by-play announcer in the 1960s, but his time with the Mets was considered less successful than others. Though he had a strong voice, his lack of connection with the audience and somewhat flat commentary led to dissatisfaction among fans. Karvellas’ stint was short-lived, as the Mets moved in a different direction to bring in more engaging personalities.

In conclusion, the New York Mets have had a wide variety of broadcasters, with some truly leaving their mark in team history, while others didn’t resonate with fans. Whether beloved or criticized, each of these voices helped shape the narrative of the Mets’ history.