Continuing our series of what players are (or should be) associated with each number. (Inspired by the Shea game countdown on the outfield fence). So far we’ve covered numbers 1 through 10. With thanks again to Mets By The Numbers, here now are 11 through 15:
11
Rightful Owner(s): Wayne Garret & Tim Tuefel
Rent-A-Met: None
Comment: Yes Tuefel was a Twin first, but he became a Met and has managed and coached in the system for several years now.
12
Rightful Owner(s): John Stearns & Ron Darling
Rent-A-Met: Willie Randolph
Comment: Randolph was and always will be a Yankee. Stearns was robbed of an opportunity to manage this team.
13
Rightful Owner(s): Edgardo Alfonzo
Rent-A-Met: Billy Wagner
Comment: Fonzie was perhaps the one true Met on the 1999-2000 playoff teams.
14
Rightful Owner(s): Gil Hodges
Rent-A-Met: None
Comment: Gil was a Dodger first, but will always be remembered as a Met as well. You know the Mets will trot out his widow Joan to take down the Game #14 sign.
15
Rightful Owner(s): Jerry Grote
Rent-A-Met: Carlos Beltran
Comment: When he’s not rustling cattle, Grote was a helluva defensive catcher. Beltran on the other hand has many years to go before being considered a Met.