Former Mets ace Jacob deGrom has officially issued his anticipated farewell to the team and its fans.
deGrom took out a full-page ad in Thursday's print editions of the New York Post to bid adieu to the only professional organization he'd known before signing a lucrative five-year contract with the Texas Rangers earlier this month.
The 34-year-old, two-time Cy Young Award winner addressed his missive to "the city of New York, the New York Mets organization, and Mets fans everywhere."
In the letter, deGrom said he will be "forever grateful" to the team for allowing him to fulfill his lifelong dream of playing in MLB. He shouted out a litany of workers and groups associated with the franchise, as well as owner Steve Cohen and general manager Billy Eppler.
Finally, deGrom thanked Mets fans for their "passion, devotion and unwavering support."
"It is humbling and appreciated beyond words," deGrom wrote. "Thank you for your dedication and for how kindly you embraced me and my family. It has been a true honor to wear the New York Mets uniform all these years. The New York Mets, the fans, and the city will always hold a very special place in our hearts."
It was signed by "Jacob deGrom and Family" and emblazoned with a No. 48 stamp.
The note comes just shy of three weeks after the news of deGrom's signing with the Rangers rocked the Mets, their fans, and the baseball world.
It's still not exactly clear why deGrom walked, or why the Mets allowed him to, but reports have indicated the team was not inclined to offer him the type of long-term deal he secured from Texas. Others suggested he had not been happy in New York for the past season or two.
deGrom's exit was met with split reactions from Mets fans. Some were devastated, while others thought it prudent not to commit to a five-year contract for a pitcher who has missed significant time due to injury in recent seasons. Some felt both.
In any event, deGrom's apparent delay in addressing Mets fans after his exit didn't sit well with some, especially after several notable free agents had done so much more promptly.
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