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'07 Mets urge current squad to stay the course amid struggles

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  Published in Business and Finance on Saturday, September 13th 2025 at 18:01 GMT by MLB
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Mets Former Players Deliver a Heart‑felt Message Ahead of the 2025 Alumni Classic

When the New York Mets announced that they would be hosting the 2025 Alumni Classic, fans of the franchise were treated to a wave of nostalgia that reached beyond the field. The event, scheduled to take place at Citi Field on June 24th, 2025, is more than a nostalgia tour; it’s a platform where former Mets stars come together to celebrate their shared history, honor the legacy of the franchise, and offer a special pep talk to the next generation of players. In a recent MLB.com feature, the organization highlighted how those former stars are using their experience and charisma to “encourage and inspire” both teammates and the fanbase alike.

A Look Back: What the Alumni Classic Is All About

The Alumni Classic is a tradition that has evolved from a handful of games between retired Mets and a mix of current and former MLB teams to a comprehensive celebration of the franchise’s past and present. According to the Mets’ official “2025 Alumni Classic” page—linked in the MLB.com article—the event will feature a full‑roster game, a “Walk‑of‑Fame” ceremony, and a series of post‑game interviews that will be streamed to fans nationwide.

The classic is slated to run from May 30 to June 24, 2025, with games at both Citi Field and a select number of MLB parks across the country. The Mets will field their current roster against a team of alumni stars, while the “Legacy” award will be presented to the player who best exemplifies the Mets’ core values: hard work, resilience, and love of the game.

The Stars Behind the Message

The MLB.com piece emphasizes that the heart of the event lies in the voices of former Mets luminaries. Among them are:

• David Wright – The franchise’s all‑time leader in home runs and hits, Wright’s return to Citi Field is expected to be a moment of reverence. He has spoken about the importance of “remembering why you started playing and keeping that flame alive.”
• José Reyes – Known for his electrifying base‑running and defensive brilliance, Reyes is noted for his focus on the mental game. “You’ve got to stay mentally sharp and respect every challenge,” he told the reporter.
• Matt Harvey – A former Cy Young award winner for the Mets, Harvey has expressed his gratitude for the platform to pass on lessons about handling pressure and adversity.
• Kris Benson – A pitcher who played during the Mets’ 2000s heyday, Benson underscores the significance of community and teamwork, citing how the camaraderie of the Mets was a “second family.”
• Michael Conforto – Though more recently traded, Conforto’s tenure with the Mets during their 2019 championship run makes him a relevant voice about what it means to pursue greatness.

In addition to these marquee names, a panel of “Veterans of the Game”—including former coaches, broadcasters, and even the legendary Jim Rantz, the Mets’ Hall of Fame broadcaster—will share their own unique takeaways from their careers.

Words of Encouragement

The MLB.com article quotes several players who have made it clear that their message to the current Mets roster and to the city of New York is one of humility, perseverance, and gratitude. One standout line came from David Wright:

“If you’ve been working hard for the past 14 seasons, you’re already ahead of the game. But it’s the love for the ball and the respect for the fans that keeps us all going. Never forget that.”

José Reyes, known for his infectious energy on the field, added:

“Every time you step on the field, imagine that fan in the front row waving your name. That’s how you keep the fire alive.”

Matt Harvey, a player who has faced both triumphs and adversity, shared a more nuanced perspective:

“The game is as much about the mindset as it is about physical skill. Stay focused on your strengths and learn from your mistakes.”

While the MLB.com feature highlighted the above sentiments, the “2025 Alumni Classic” official page also teased a short video montage where each former player will deliver a brief 30‑second pep talk for the current Mets. Fans will be able to watch these clips during the intermissions and will also receive a downloadable PDF of the full-length speeches.

A Rally for Fans

Beyond the players, the event aims to re‑engage the Mets’ fanbase. The MLB.com article notes that the 2025 Alumni Classic will be accompanied by a community outreach program—“Mets in the Neighborhood”—where former players will visit local schools and youth baseball camps. They will not only sign autographs but also hold interactive Q&A sessions that emphasize the values of hard work, teamwork, and perseverance.

The “Mets in the Neighborhood” initiative is designed to be a direct channel between the franchise’s heritage and the next generation of baseball fans. Through it, former players hope to foster a sense of belonging and continuity, encouraging young athletes to dream big while staying grounded.

The Broader Context

The 2025 Alumni Classic also coincides with the Mets’ “Legacy Series,” a broader campaign celebrating the franchise’s 53rd anniversary. The series includes a commemorative jersey release, a museum exhibit, and a special “Mets Legacy” podcast that features interviews with former players and staff. The MLB.com piece frames the Alumni Classic as the culmination of the Legacy Series, an opportunity for fans to see how the past has shaped the present.

Looking Forward

In a closing note, the MLB.com article underscores that the real value of the Alumni Classic isn’t just the game played but the stories and lessons shared. Former players have made it clear that they see the event as a platform for passing on their experiences, for giving back to the community, and for creating an environment that inspires future Mets to emulate the same standards of excellence.

As June 24 approaches, the Mets’ storied past and hopeful future are set to collide on the diamond. The former players’ encouragement will resonate far beyond the ballpark, echoing in the hearts of fans, young athletes, and the entire baseball community. The 2025 Alumni Classic promises to be more than a game; it’s a living testament to the enduring spirit of the New York Mets.