New York Mets to Honor Davey Johnson with Uniform Patch
The New York Mets will commemorate the legacy of the late Davey Johnson by wearing a commemorative “Davey” patch on their uniform sleeves throughout the 2026 season. This tribute recognizes Johnson’s significant contributions to the franchise, particularly his leadership of the 1986 World Series championship team.
A Manager of Unmatched Success
Davey Johnson, who passed away on September 5, 2025, at the age of 82, holds the Mets’ franchise record for managerial wins with 595. His tenure, spanning from 1984 to 1990, was marked by consistent success, with the team averaging over 95 wins per season. The pinnacle of his career came in 1986, when the Mets achieved a then-team record of 108 regular-season wins before ultimately triumphing in the World Series.
The 1986 Mets and a Lasting Legacy
Johnson’s leadership style was characterized by a “quiet confidence and unwavering belief in his team,” according to Mets owners Steve and Alex Cohen. He fostered an environment where players thrived, and many credit him with contributing to their individual successes. The 1986 Mets team remains iconic in baseball history, and Johnson is widely regarded as the architect of their championship run.
Opening Day Ceremony to Honor Johnson’s Memory
A pre-game ceremony will be held on Thursday, March 26, 2026, at Citi Field, as the Mets begin their season against the Pittsburgh Pirates. Davey Johnson’s widow, Susan, will be accompanied on the mound by her son, Jeremiah Allen, and grandson, Kai Casebolt. Darryl Strawberry and Mookie Wilson, key members of the 1986 championship team, will catch the ceremonial first pitches.
Beyond the Mets: A Career of Excellence
While best known for his time with the Mets, Johnson enjoyed a successful career as both a player and a manager. He won two World Series championships as a player with the Baltimore Orioles in 1966, and 1970. As a manager, he led four different franchises to the postseason and earned Manager of the Year honors in both the American and National Leagues – with the Orioles in 1997 and the Washington Nationals in 2012.
A Manager’s Impact: Winning Percentage
Throughout his 17 seasons as a manager, Johnson compiled a record of 1,372-1,071, boasting a .562 winning percentage. This ranks sixth among managers with at least 1,300 wins, demonstrating his consistent ability to build winning teams.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How many wins did Davey Johnson have as Mets manager?
A: Davey Johnson had 595 wins as manager of the New York Mets, a franchise record.
Q: What year did the Mets win the World Series under Davey Johnson?
A: The Mets won the World Series in 1986 under Davey Johnson’s leadership.
Q: Where will the Davey Johnson patch be located on the Mets uniform?
A: The commemorative patch will be worn on the sleeve of the Mets uniform, both at home and away games.
Q: Who will participate in the opening day ceremony honoring Davey Johnson?
A: Susan Johnson, Jeremiah Allen, and Kai Casebolt will be on the mound, with Darryl Strawberry and Mookie Wilson catching the ceremonial first pitches.
Did you know? Davey Johnson also managed the Cincinnati Reds, Los Angeles Dodgers, and Washington Nationals throughout his managerial career.
Explore more about the life and career of Davey Johnson on MLB.com.
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