GOOD NEWS: Gary, Keith, and Ron Begin Their 20th Season in the Booth Calling Mets Baseball
For two decades, Gary Cohen, Keith Hernandez, and Ron Darling have been the beloved voices of New York Mets baseball, bringing fans an unparalleled mix of insight, wit, and passion. As they embark on their 20th season together in the broadcast booth, Mets fans have every reason to celebrate one of the most cherished announcing teams in Major League Baseball.
The Gold Standard of Baseball Broadcasting
Since forming as a trio in 2006, Gary, Keith, and Ron—affectionately known as GKR—have set the gold standard for baseball broadcasting. Their chemistry is unmatched, seamlessly blending Cohen’s play-by-play precision, Hernandez’s candid analysis, and Darling’s deep pitching expertise. The result is an experience that is as entertaining as it is informative, providing fans with a front-row seat to both the intricacies of the game and the nuances of Mets baseball.
Gary Cohen, the play-by-play maestro, has been a Mets voice since 1989, having previously spent time on the radio before transitioning to television when SportsNet New York (SNY) launched in 2006. His encyclopedic knowledge of the team and its history, combined with his unmistakable enthusiasm, make him the perfect narrator for Mets baseball.
Keith Hernandez, the former Mets captain and Gold Glove first baseman, adds a wealth of on-field experience and an often-hilarious dose of unfiltered commentary. Whether he’s critiquing a player’s fundamentals, reminiscing about his playing days, or playfully lamenting the presence of too many analytics, Hernandez provides color analysis with authenticity and charm.
Ron Darling, the cerebral former Mets pitcher and World Series champion, rounds out the trio with his pitching acumen and measured insights. His ability to break down mechanics, approach, and game situations brings invaluable perspective to both casual viewers and baseball purists alike.
A Connection Like No Other
Over the years, GKR have built a rapport that extends beyond the game itself. Their camaraderie is evident in every broadcast, from Keith’s famous fascination with snacks and Seinfeld references to Ron’s dry humor and Cohen’s mastery of keeping it all in balance. Fans have grown to love their inside jokes, playful arguments, and even the occasional tangent about subjects far removed from baseball.
But at the heart of their bond is a shared love for the game and the team they cover. Mets fans appreciate that they call games with honesty, never sugarcoating a poor performance but also knowing when to highlight the positives. Their authenticity has endeared them to generations of Mets faithful, making their voices a defining part of the team’s identity.
Memorable Moments in the Booth
Twenty years together means countless unforgettable moments. Whether it’s Cohen’s legendary home run calls (“It’s outta here!”), Keith’s amusing exasperation at in-game blunders, or Ron’s expert breakdowns of pitching duels, every broadcast is a mix of entertainment and education.
Some standout moments from their tenure include:
- Johan Santana’s No-Hitter (2012): A historic night for the franchise, made even more special by the trio’s call of the moment.
- The 2015 World Series Run: GKR’s excitement and storytelling brought Mets fans through the highs and lows of an unforgettable season.
- The “Keith Falling Asleep” Incident: A lighthearted moment when Keith dozed off during a late-night West Coast game, creating an iconic blooper that fans still laugh about today.
- The Return of Keith’s Cat, Hadji: A seemingly mundane discussion that turned into a legendary running joke within the Mets community.
A Legacy That Continues
As the 2025 season begins, GKR remain as strong as ever. While broadcasting partnerships often evolve, theirs has remained constant, a testament to their chemistry and the loyalty of Mets fans who tune in night after night.
The trio’s presence in the booth is more than just an accompaniment to the game—it’s an integral part of the Mets experience. For fans, the idea of Mets baseball without Gary, Keith, and Ron is almost unimaginable.
Their influence extends beyond the booth as well. Over the years, they’ve become an integral part of Mets culture, making appearances at fan events, sharing their insights through social media, and even engaging in community outreach efforts. Their voices are synonymous with some of the franchise’s greatest moments, and their impact on the sport is undeniable.
Looking Ahead
As they embark on their 20th season together, Mets fans can only hope for many more years of GKR calling the action. In an era where change is constant in sports media, their longevity and consistency serve as a rare gift.
So, as the Mets take the field for another season, there’s one thing fans can count on: Gary, Keith, and Ron will be right there in the booth, ready to bring every pitch, every play, and every moment to life with the same passion and expertise that has made them legends in their own right.
Here’s to 20 seasons of GKR—and hopefully, many more to come!
I’ve put together a piece celebrating Gary, Keith, and Ron’s 20th season in the Mets booth. Let me know if you’d like any adjustments or additions!
