Mets Induct Mike Piazza (The Greatest Hitting Catcher In MLB History) Into the Team's Hall of Fame

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Sunday September 29, 2013: In a touching moment at Citi Field, Mets legend #31- Mike Piazza, was inducted into the New York Mets Hall of Fame.

Mets radio voice Howie Rose was the on field MC, joined by other Mets Hall of Fame inductees; Ed Kranepool, Rusty Staub, Bud Harrelson, Keith Hernandez, Dwight Gooden, John Franco, Mookie Wilson as well as Al Jackson & the Glider; Ed Charles.

Also on hand with Franco, was 2000 NL Champion teammate Edgardo Alfonzo who spoke some nice words & through a special video message, Piazza's old battery mate; Al Lieter (who was working at MLB studios in New Jersey).

Piazza walked onto Citi Field as Jimi Hendrix's version of "the Star Spangled Banner" & Ted Nugent's "Stranglehold" blasted from the speakers. Piazza of course is a tremendous classic rock / hard rock / heavy metal fan. The Italian American Hero, received a standing ovation from the full house crowd that came out just for him.   



The Piazza family; his parents, his brothers, his wife Alicia & daughters all were all seated on the field along side him, for the emotional festivities.

After acknowledging the Mets organization & players, Piazza broke down when thanking his family. There wasn't a dry eye in the house as he thanked his father for all his determination for his son. The festivities concluded with him tossing out the ceremonial first pitch / last pitch of 2013 to David Wright.

Even New York's Mayor Bloomberg declared this day Mike Piazza Day in New York City.

 

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