Gary Carter

The Kid who led the Mets to glory.

Gary Edmund Carter (April 8, 1954 – February 16, 2012) was an American professional baseball catcher whose 19-year Major League Baseball (MLB) career was spent primarily with the Montreal Expos and New York Mets. Nicknamed "the Kid" for his youthful exuberance, Carter was named an All-Star 11 times and was a member of the 1986 World Series champion Mets.

Quick Facts

Position: Catcher
Bats: Right
Born: 8 April 1954
Birthplace: Culver City, California, U.S.
Died: 16 February 2012
Place of death: Palm Beach Gardens, Florida, U.S.
Debut league: MLB
Debut date: September 16

Lore & Background

Carter was known throughout his career for his hitting, excellent defense, ability to handle pitchers and on-field leadership. He made clutch contributions to the Mets' World Series championship in 1986, including a 12th-inning single against the Houston Astros to win Game 5 of the NLCS and a 10th-inning single against the Boston Red Sox to start the comeback rally in Game 6 of the World Series. He is one of only four players to be named captain of the Mets, and the Expos retired his number 8.

Reader's Guide

After leaving the major leagues, Carter coached baseball at the college and minor-league levels. In 2003, Carter was inducted into the National Baseball Hall of Fame, becoming the first Hall of Famer whose plaque depicts him as a member of the Montreal Expos.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who was Gary Carter to the New York Mets?

Known as 'The Kid,' he was a Hall of Fame catcher who played five seasons with the team from 1985 to 1989. He is best remembered for his leadership and clutch performance during their championship run.

What major achievement defines Gary Carter's Mets career?

Carter anchored the defense behind the plate and helped lead New York to their World Series title in 1986 while wearing number 8. He was also named team captain, a distinction shared by very few players in franchise history.

How is Gary Carter represented in the Baseball Hall of Fame?

He received this honor in 2003, becoming the first player ever inducted with a plaque depicting him wearing a Mets uniform. This decision highlighted his significant impact on New York despite spending more years elsewhere.