On Sunday, August 4th, dozens of baseball fans of all ages braved the rain to meet legendary Major League Baseball (MLB) pitcher Dwight “Doc” Gooden at a special meet and greet. Held at the Bull’s Eye Sports Pub, at 2073 Flatbush Avenue, the event saw dozens of eager fans lining up for a chance to get an autograph and a photo with the iconic New York Mets and Yankees star. Although pouring outside, the event was not called due to rain, with everyone standing in line for some “inside” baseball, to “Meet the Met.”
The atmosphere was electric as fans, ranging from the youngest at 6 years old to the oldest in their 60s, gathered with photos, baseballs, hats and jerseys, all waiting to meet their sports hero. Many donned their baseball uniforms and jerseys, proudly displaying Gooden’s legendary Mets number 16, where his incredible pitching skills and his number 16 jersey made history and was retired earlier this year.
Gooden was in great spirits, engaging warmly with each fan, taking time to chat, reminisce about the old days and share his love for baseball. His generosity shone as he signed autographs, posed for pictures and even embraced the youngest of fans, who weren’t even born during the Mets in their prime. For older fans, meeting their childhood hero brought tears of nostalgia, with one gentleman introducing his young son to Gooden while trying to hold back his emotions.
Among the attendees were young baseball athletes, eager to learn from the legend. Gooden took the time to demonstrate his signature pitching style, showing them how to throw a curveball, offering invaluable advice to the next generation of players. Jayden Caro, a pitcher for Kingsborough Community College Wave, received real-life pitching advice from the legend himself.
The Bravo family, including 6-year-old Antony, who is a big Mets fan, were thrilled to meet Gooden, having grown up admiring the 1986 Mets team. Jayden Levin, a 10-year-old super Mets fan, was meeting Gooden for the second time. His father, Jared Levin, recalled his own magical memories of the 1986 Mets, making this event a special moment for their family.
Christian Stanton, a 9-year-old fan, quizzed on Mets trivia, proudly knew that the team won the World Series in 1986. Gooden signed his bobblehead, adding to his collection of cherished memorabilia. Even the pub’s mascot, Mikey the dog, a chill and adorable Havanese, was a fan among the crowd.
Dwight Gooden, affectionately known as “Doc,” is one of the most celebrated pitchers in MLB history, making his mark with the New York Mets and famously helping the team win the extraordinary 1986 World Series. Gooden’s career highlights include being named the National League Rookie of the Year in 1984, winning the Cy Young Award in 1985 and being a four-time All-Star. His best game was on September 7, 1984, when he struck out 16 batters in a complete-game victory. Despite personal struggles, Gooden made a remarkable comeback, later playing for the New York Yankees and contributing to their World Series victories in 1996 and 2000.
The 1986 Mets, often referred to as the “Amazin’ Mets,” posted 108 wins, the most in franchise history. They defeated the Houston Astros in the National League Championship Series (NLCS) and went on to win the World Series against the Boston Red Sox in a dramatic Game 6. The team’s roster included other legends like Darryl Strawberry, Keith Hernandez and Gary Carter.
The meet and greet also celebrated the retirement of Gooden’s Mets jersey number 16 earlier this season. Fans enjoyed a unique opportunity to get up close with Doc, receiving an autographed 8×10 picture and an additional autograph on an item they brought with them.
As he signed various memorabilia, Gooden shared a humorous anecdote about the weirdest thing he had ever signed: a toothbrush.
The Bull’s Eye Pub has a rich history. It was located on Quentin Road for 13 years before moving to its current home on Flatbush Avenue, where it has been for nearly six years.
In an exclusive sit-down with the Canarsie Courier, Gooden shared his favorite memory from the peak of his career: “When we went on to win the pennant in 1986 (prior to winning the World Series), after getting so close in 1985, winning at home against the Cubs [in 1984, a major highlight of the Mets season], and the fans rushing the field, was the best moment.” Fans who witnessed these classic moments at Shea Stadium and on television agreed, celebrating a golden era of baseball history and the incredible legacy of Dwight “Doc” Gooden.
Don’t miss your opportunity to meet another legendary Mets player – The Bull’s Eye Pub will be hosting a Mookie Wilson Meet and Greet and a Family BBQ from 3 to 6 p.m. on Saturday, August 24th. Contact the venue at 718-627-9408 for ticket info.
