The New York Mets will wear a memorial 'Davey' patch on their home and road uniforms throughout the 2026 season to honor the late manager Davey Johnson. The team made the announcement on Tuesday, marking the 40th anniversary of their 1986 World Series championship under his leadership. Johnson's family and former players will participate in Opening Day ceremonies at Citi Field.
Davey Johnson, who led the Mets to the 1986 World Series title, died at age 82 in September 2025 after a long illness. The Mets owners, Steve and Alex Cohen, praised him in a statement: “Davey was a bold manager who led with a quiet confidence and an unwavering belief in his team. He cared deeply for his players both on and off the field. Some of the greatest players in our team history credit him for their successes. In the 40th anniversary of the 1986 championship, this is a fitting tribute to the man who guided the team to that title.” The team chose to wait until 2026 for a full-season honor, given his death late in 2025. Johnson's 595 wins as Mets manager remain the franchise record, along with his .588 winning percentage. In 1986, he steered the team to a franchise-high 108 regular-season victories. Over six full seasons, he averaged more than 95 wins per year, never finishing below .500 until his dismissal early in 1990 with a 20-22 record. Johnson later managed the Reds, Orioles, Dodgers and Nationals, posting a career .562 winning percentage that ranks sixth among managers with at least 1,300 wins. On Opening Day at Citi Field, his widow Susan will escort his stepson and grandson to throw ceremonial first pitches, caught by former players Darryl Strawberry and Mookie Wilson. The Mets also plan season-long tributes to the 1986 team, including a reunion on August 1 at Citi Field.
