In a tribute befitting his legacy, thousands of Mets fans will have the privilege to pay their respects to Gary “The Kid” Carter on Opening Day.
The New York Mets will honor Carter’s memory before their first game of the season against the Atlanta Braves on Thursday, April 5 at Citi Field. A pre-game ceremony will be held, with Carter’s wife, Sandy, son, D.J., and daughters, Kimmy and Christy and their families on the field for a moment of silence and the ceremonial first pitch.
“We are thrilled that the Carters will be with us,” said Mets COO Jeff Wilpon. “On Opening Day, Mets fans will have the chance to pay their respects and remember all of [Carter’s] accomplishments.”
Carter passed away on February 16 at the age of 57, following a 10-month battle with brain cancer. The Hall of Fame catcher was initially diagnosed with four brain tumors last May, a mere two weeks after completing his second season as head coach at Palm Beach Atlantic University.
Mets players will wear a patch on their right sleeve featuring a black home plate with “KID 8” in white lettering to honor Carter throughout the 2012 season.
“Our family is so honored to be part of the Mets’ Opening Day at Citi Field,” said Sandy Carter. “It will be an incredible experience for us to celebrate Gary’s legacy by having our family throw out the first pitch. The Mets and the fans of New York always had a special place in Gary’s heart and that admiration will live on in our hearts for years to come. Thanks to the Wilpon family and the entire Mets organization for making this possible.”
