Mets Legend Howie Rose Retires After 40 Years Broadcasting

After 40 years of bringing Mets baseball into the homes and hearts of New York fans, legendary broadcaster Howie Rose is taking his final bow at the end of this season.

Rose, 72, announced his retirement Thursday in an emotional video that captured what makes him so special to Mets Nation. He's been part of the team's broadcasts since 1987, calling some of the franchise's most memorable moments with the perfect blend of professionalism and pure fan passion.

The decision wasn't easy. Rose admitted he's wrestled with retirement for years, going back and forth on when the right time would be.

"The simple reality is that I'm 72 years old, and my wife Barbara, who has sacrificed so much for so long, deserves to have her husband around a little more often, whether she likes it or not," Rose said with his trademark humor.

But true to form, Rose isn't making a clean break. He plans to stay involved with the Mets in some capacity because, as he put it, "letting go of the Mets isn't hard. It's impossible."

This season, he'll broadcast every home game at Citi Field and the cross-town matchups at Yankee Stadium. If the Mets make the postseason, he'll be at every single game, home or away.

Why This Inspires

Rose's announcement reveals something beautiful about dedication and relationships. For nearly 40 years, he's been more than just a voice on the radio. He's been a constant companion through wins and losses, a storyteller who made every game matter.

The way he talks about Mets fans says it all. "The warmth, acceptance, and yes, love that you've shown me in so many ways for so long makes this all the more difficult," he said. That's not a broadcaster talking to an audience. That's family.

His dream ending? Serving as master of ceremonies at City Hall after a Mets World Series victory parade down the Canyon of Heroes. He wants to bookend his career by opening Opening Day and celebrating a championship.

Rose represents something rare in sports: longevity built on genuine love for the game and respect for fans who share that passion.