Howard Johnson first arrived in New York ahead of the 1985 campaign, traded from the Detroit Tigers in exchange for pitcher Walt Terrell. Having just earned a World Series ring in Detroit without seeing action in the 1984 postseason, the switch-hitting infielder landed on a rising Mets squad with plenty to prove.
After playing a role in New York’s 1986 World Series championship, Johnson made a breakthrough season in 1987, becoming the first switch-hitter in Major League history to reach the 30-30 club with 36 home runs and 32 stolen bases. This achievement was only the beginning; he would later accomplish the 30-30 feat three more times while with the Mets, setting a franchise record for energetic, high-impact offense.
He received two All-Star selections and two Silver Slugger Awards in 1989 and 1991. During this time, he consistently anchored the Mets' lineup alongside Darryl Strawberry. His peak offensive performance came in 1991, a remarkable season when he won the National League Home Run title with 38 home runs and the RBI crown with 117, while also leading the league in runs scored. His skill in contributing offensively from both sides of the plate earned him two fifth-place finishes in the NL MVP voting, in 1989 and 1991.
Following that torrid 1991 peak, Johnson entered a steep physical decline as injuries disrupted his timing and sapped his signature power during his final two years in New York. Johnson left the team for Colorado for free agency and, as a Met, had totals of 997 hits, 192 home runs, and 202 stolen bases, which warrant this high spot on our all-time New York Mets list. The Mets chose Johnson for their franchise Hall of Fame in 2023.
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