Howie Rose’s long-standing career as a Mets broadcaster reached its official conclusion on Sunday, though a scheduled ceremony to honor his contributions was postponed due to inclement weather. The Mets wrapped up their home season with a 7-2 loss to the Philadelphia Phillies at Citi Field, marking the end of an era for the team’s familiar radio voice.
Rose spent 32 seasons with the Mets, beginning his tenure in 1987 as a reporter for "Mets Extra" on WFAN before becoming the team’s lead play-by-play announcer. The 72-year-old broadcaster announced during spring training that the 2026 season would be his last. Although the team had planned a pregame celebration to commemorate his career, rain delayed the event until next year’s home opener.
Following the final out Sunday, several Mets players tipped their caps toward the radio booth in a salute to Rose. Additionally, former Mets players Cleon Jones, Art Shamsky, Lee Mazzilli, Mookie Wilson, and former manager Terry Collins were present at the game, underscoring the broadcaster’s long-standing connection to the organization.
In an emotional pregame news conference, Rose reflected on how he hopes to be remembered by Mets fans. “I was just the lucky one that got out of the upper deck into the broadcast booth,” he said, referencing his upbringing as a Mets fan in Queens. Rose emphasized that he has always seen himself as a representative of the passionate Mets fan base, sharing their sensibilities and appreciation for what the club means to the community. He also acknowledged the complex emotions surrounding his career, noting how the team has treated him over the years, including during his final season.
Beyond his work with the Mets, Rose’s broadcasting career included play-by-play duties for the New York Rangers and New York Islanders, both New York-based professional hockey teams. He also expressed gratitude for how his career unfolded, describing it as an unforeseen and extraordinary journey. “If somebody would have told me, ‘Here’s your career,’ when I was age 15, I wouldn’t have believed it. The wildest fiction writer couldn’t have come up with this. I am very blessed,” Rose said.
Elsewhere, Mets interim manager Andy Green provided an update on closer Devin Williams, who has been sidelined since August 8 with a shoulder strain. Williams will travel with the team to Texas this week and could be activated from the injured list soon, potentially strengthening the team’s bullpen as the season nears its end.
