The New York Mets' beloved play-by-play announcer, Howie Rose, has announced his retirement at the end of the 2026 season, marking the conclusion of an iconic era in baseball broadcasting.
Rose, who has been the primary voice of the Mets since 2004, is set to retire after an impressive 52-year career in broadcasting. His tenure has been a constant in the lives of Mets fans, bringing the highs and lows of the team to life with his distinctive voice and insightful commentary.
The Mets organization took to social media to celebrate Rose’s career, stating, "Put it in the books! 📚 The 2026 season will be the final one for the legendary voice of Mets radio, @HowieRose. Join us in congratulating Howie Rose on an INCREDIBLE career 📻."
At 72, Rose was inducted into the Mets Hall of Fame in January 2023, a testament to his enduring impact on the franchise and its fanbase.
As news of his retirement spread, tributes poured in from fans and colleagues alike. Kelley Franco, host of Three Inning Fan, praised Rose as "the best in the business," while baseball researcher Bill Chuck encouraged fans to appreciate Rose’s skills, warmth, and intelligence throughout his final season.
Mets owners Steve and Alex Cohen highlighted Rose's passion and authenticity in a heartfelt statement, noting how he has brought the franchise's most memorable moments to life and touched the hearts of generations of fans.
Will Sammon of The Athletic lauded Rose as a broadcaster who is "prepared, honest, insightful, curious, informed, and entertaining," consistently rising to meet the moment with his broadcasts.
Longtime Yankees broadcaster Suzyn Waldman shared a personal anecdote, recalling Rose's dedication to perfecting his craft. She remembered him practicing play-by-play in a small room at WFAN, critiquing himself to continually improve-a testament to his work ethic and commitment to excellence.
As Howie Rose prepares to sign off for the last time, his legacy will undoubtedly resonate with fans and colleagues who have admired his passion and dedication to the game. The 2026 season promises to be a celebration of a career that has enriched the lives of countless baseball enthusiasts.