As the SNY Mets booth gears up for its 21st season, fans are buzzing about the upcoming Opening Day. However, Gary Cohen, Keith Hernandez, and Ron Darling, affectionately known as "GKR," won't be behind the mics for Thursday’s opener. Instead, the game will air on NBC and Peacock.
Cohen plans to watch from his couch, Hernandez will enjoy a New York Strip in Manhattan, and Darling will catch the game from the empty booth, keeping an eye on his 10-year-old. SNY will start their broadcasts with the Mets’ second game on Saturday afternoon.
It's not just the Mets facing this change; the Yankees' opener will also be broadcast outside their usual network, airing on Netflix. While some, like YES’ Michael Kay, have voiced frustration, Cohen and his team are taking it in stride. "Opening Day is special," Cohen shared, acknowledging the nature of TV contracts.
The majority of the Mets' 2026 games will still be on SNY and WPIX, with Hernandez reducing his workload slightly but remaining part of the team under a new three-year contract. In a world where sports broadcasting is constantly evolving, the GKR trio is seen as the gold standard.
Hernandez credits former SNY executive producer Curt Gowdy for their successful dynamic, highlighting the balance of a pitcher’s and a hitter’s perspectives, with Cohen as the maestro guiding the show. Cohen reminisces about their early days, noting how their lack of initial experience forced them to rely on each other, building a strong foundation.
Darling emphasizes the trust they've developed, which resonates with viewers. Mets fans appreciate their honest commentary, whether the team is soaring or struggling. The trio's longevity is attributed to their lack of egos and the steady guidance of producer Gregg Picker, whom Darling calls “the boss of the show.”
This season brings a change behind the scenes, with Eddie Wahrman stepping in as the new lead director after John DeMarsico’s departure. Hernandez assures fans that the transition has been smooth, describing Wahrman as a familiar and trusted presence.
Mets fans eagerly await Saturday, when they can once again enjoy the familiar voices of Cohen, Hernandez, and Darling in the SNY booth.