A Voice Cast in Bronze: Mets to Unveil Jerry Koosman Sculpture at Citi Field
The New York Mets are honoring a cherished voice from their past in a way that will echo through generations. On September 6, 2025, the team will unveil a bronze sculpture of Hall of Fame broadcaster Jerry Koosman outside of Citi Field, immortalizing the man who became the soundtrack of Mets baseball for nearly two decades.
Known for his passionate commentary, sharp insight, and endearing connection to Mets fans across the world, Koosman spent 18 years in the radio booth delivering every pitch, swing, and storyline with a sincerity that few could match. While his Major League career began on the mound, it was behind the microphone where Koosman found his second legacy.
The sculpture, which will be placed at the main entrance to Citi Field alongside monuments to other Mets legends, will depict Koosman seated at a broadcast desk, headphones on, microphone in hand—smiling as if he’s just called another game-winning home run. The tribute reflects not only his Hall of Fame career in broadcasting but the bond he created with generations of Mets fans who tuned in faithfully.
From the Mound to the Microphone
Jerry Koosman first made headlines as a pitcher, debuting for the Mets in 1967 and becoming an instrumental figure in their historic 1969 World Series championship. With a blistering fastball and fearless demeanor, Koosman quickly became a fan favorite and one of the franchise’s foundational players.
Yet it was his post-playing career that would cement his place in the hearts of fans in an entirely different way. After hanging up his cleats in the early 1980s, Koosman transitioned into broadcasting—a path that many former players attempt, but few master. He joined the Mets radio team in 1987, and from his first call, it was evident that Koosman was a natural.
His voice—calm, gravelly, and unmistakably New York—carried the emotional weight of the franchise’s highest highs and lowest lows. From Mike Piazza’s post-9/11 home run to the rollercoaster seasons of the early 2000s and the resurgence of the Mets in the 2010s, Koosman was always there, telling the story like only he could.
A Sculpted Legacy
The decision to honor Koosman with a sculpture was met with resounding approval from fans and alumni alike. Steve Cohen, owner of the Mets, emphasized the importance of preserving the team’s cultural legacy.
“Jerry Koosman is a bridge between eras,” Cohen said. “He was part of the Miracle Mets and later became the voice of a franchise. This sculpture is not just a tribute to his career, but to the generations of fans who grew up listening to him.”
The sculpture was designed by renowned artist Julie Rotblatt-Amrany, whose previous works include tributes to sports legends like Michael Jordan, Pat Tillman, and Jackie Robinson. Rotblatt-Amrany said Koosman’s likeness posed a unique challenge—not just to capture his physical features, but to represent the essence of a voice.
“In sculpture, you usually tell a story through motion or expression,” she said. “With Jerry, the story is in the stillness—the focus, the calm joy. It’s in the way he leaned toward the mic, the way he connected with the game and the audience.”
The statue will feature Koosman surrounded by subtle details, including a miniature radio, a scorecard etched with one of his most iconic calls, and even an inscription of one of his beloved catchphrases: “And there it goes!”
Fans React with Emotion
News of the sculpture has already sparked a wave of nostalgic memories from fans and fellow broadcasters. On social media, tributes have poured in, with hashtags like #VoiceOfTheMets and #KoosmanForever trending among Mets faithful.
“For many of us, Jerry’s voice was the game,” wrote one fan on X (formerly Twitter). “Win or lose, he made it worth tuning in. I’m bringing my kids to see that statue. They need to know who he was.”
Keith Hernandez, Koosman’s longtime colleague in the booth, shared his admiration during a recent interview: “Koos had that perfect blend of heart and humor. He was never just reading a game—he was living it, and so were you.”
Honoring More Than Just Baseball
Koosman’s influence went beyond baseball. He was a devoted supporter of numerous charities in New York, especially those involving youth sports and literacy. In the 1990s, he helped launch the “Books and Baseball” campaign, which provided free game tickets and reading materials to underserved communities in the five boroughs.
In recognition of these contributions, the sculpture’s base will also feature a small plaque commemorating Koosman’s charitable work, along with a quote he often shared with young fans: “Knowledge is like the game—it grows the more you play it.”
The Ceremony Ahead
The unveiling ceremony is expected to draw thousands, including former players, broadcasters, and city officials. The Mets have announced that the date, September 6, will be officially recognized as “Jerry Koosman Day,” with a pre-game ceremony featuring tributes, archival broadcasts, and speeches from family members.
The team will also wear commemorative patches bearing Koosman’s initials during the game. Fans in attendance will receive a limited-edition pin featuring a miniature replica of the statue.
“It’s going to be one of the most emotional nights we’ve had here,” said Mets broadcaster Howie Rose. “Jerry’s voice was part of the soul of this team. To see him honored this way—it just feels right.”
A Lasting Presence
As Mets fans walk through Citi Field’s gates in the years to come, they’ll pass by a man who called nearly two decades’ worth of baseball, whose voice narrated heartbreak and triumph alike. The Jerry Koosman sculpture will stand not only as a tribute to one of the greats, but as a monument to the enduring power of storytelling in sports.
In the end, Jerry Koosman didn’t just report on Mets history—he became a part of it. And now, cast in b
ronze, his presence will continue to welcome fans home.
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