TTM Stats
- Sent: 3/22/2022 | Received: 4/11/2022 | 19 Days
- ’76 Topps
- Address: Home (address from Sports Card Forum)
The Story of the Autograph
Wayne Garrett, a versatile infielder, played a key role in one of the most iconic moments in baseball history: the 1969 “Miracle Mets.” Known for his grit and work ethic, Garrett spent most of his career with the New York Mets, contributing both with his bat and his glove during the team’s historic rise to prominence in the late 1960s and early 1970s.
Ronald Wayne Garrett was born on December 3, 1947, in Brooksville, Florida. He grew up playing baseball in Florida’s competitive high school system and eventually drew the attention of Major League scouts with his athleticism and potential as a versatile infielder. In 1965, Garrett was drafted by the Milwaukee Braves in the sixth round, beginning his journey to the big leagues. After spending a few years developing in the minors, Garrett was selected by the New York Mets in the 1968 Rule 5 Draft. The move would prove pivotal, as he would soon find himself on the biggest stage in baseball.
Garrett made his MLB debut for the New York Mets on April 12, 1969, just as the team was entering what would become one of the most magical seasons in Major League history. Garrett, primarily a third baseman, quickly became a key contributor to the team’s infield. As a rookie, he appeared in 124 games, providing solid defense and contributing with timely hits.
The 1969 Mets, who had been perennial underdogs since their inception in 1962, shocked the baseball world by winning the National League East division, the National League pennant, and eventually the World Series, defeating the Baltimore Orioles in five games. Garrett’s defense and contributions at the plate helped stabilize the team, and while he wasn’t one of the marquee names like Tom Seaver or Cleon Jones, his role was crucial to the team’s success. His efforts, along with those of his teammates, earned him a place in baseball history as part of the “Miracle Mets.”
Following the 1969 season, Wayne Garrett remained an important piece of the Mets’ roster. His versatility in the infield allowed him to play both second base and third base, and he became known for his reliable glove and occasional power at the plate. Garrett had his best offensive season in 1973, when he hit 16 home runs, drove in 58 runs, and posted a .256 batting average. That year, the Mets once again reached the World Series, facing the Oakland Athletics in a hard-fought seven-game series.
Despite Garrett hitting two home runs during the series, the Mets fell just short, losing in seven games. Garrett’s tenure with the Mets lasted until 1976. During his time in New York, he earned a reputation as a solid, workmanlike player who could be counted on to contribute in clutch situations. Over his eight seasons with the Mets, Garrett hit 55 home runs, drove in 295 runs, and appeared in 883 games.
In 1976, Garrett was traded to the Montreal Expos, where he played for parts of three seasons before finishing his Major League career with the St. Louis Cardinals in 1978. Following his time in the majors, Garrett briefly played in Japan with the Chunichi Dragons before retiring from professional baseball.
Garrett finished his MLB career with a .239 batting average, 61 home runs, and 340 RBIs over 10 seasons. While he didn’t achieve the superstar status of some of his contemporaries, his steady play, particularly during the Mets’ two World Series runs, left a lasting impact on the franchise.
After retiring from baseball, Wayne Garrett largely stepped out of the public spotlight. He has remained connected to the sport, occasionally making appearances at Mets reunions and events, particularly those celebrating the 1969 championship team. His contributions to that iconic squad have ensured his place in New York Mets lore.
Garrett’s post-baseball life has been one of quiet reflection, but his legacy on the field, especially as a key figure in one of the most memorable moments in baseball history, endures. He’s often remembered as a player who maximized his potential and thrived in the biggest moments, contributing to a team that captivated the imagination of baseball fans everywhere.
This is my third successful return from him. To see the other successful returns, check out these posts:
The Score on Wayne Garrett – 7.0
Wayne has one of the more fancy signatures our there. Or maybe you could call it a little more “classic” as it’s close to a proper cursive. I most definitely love this card as it ticks a lot of boxes for me: Mets, ’76 Topps, and shows off the signature well. I even like that his angle on the signature kind of goes with the image on the card.
Thanks Mr. Garrett! I’m giving this return a 7.
>>> READ MORE ABOUT MY AUTOGRAPH SCORING SYSTEM <<<
Thanks for visiting BravestarrCards.com: Card Collecting and TTM Autographs.
Information gathered using Wikipedia and Baseball Reference.