48. Wayne Garrett

When Wayne Garrett joined the roster as a 21-year-old rookie in 1969, he entered a competitive infield on a team ready to make history. Picked by the Mets from the Braves organization during the 1968 Rule 5 draft, this left-handed infielder quickly became a key part of the legendary "Miracle Mets." Sharing third base with Ed Charles, Garrett offered dependable defense and a disciplined batting approach, walking 53 times in limited appearances, crucial in guiding the young team to its first National League pennant and ultimately winning the World Series.

Over several seasons, Garrett established himself as the dependable presence in the Mets' infield. Though lacking the flashy skills of some peers, his adaptability and keen batting eye ensured his regular spot in the lineup. He moved between second and third base, persistently confronting challenging at-bats and often leading the team in walks. Regardless of new competitors for playing time, Garrett’s professional attitude consistently earned him a place on the field.

His patience and dedication reached their highest during the memorable 1973 "Ya Gotta Believe" campaign. As the everyday third baseman, Garrett delivered the best regular-season performance of his career. He amassed 129 hits, drew 92 walks to achieve a remarkable .363 on-base percentage, and set career highs with 16 home runs and 58 RBIs. He led the top of the lineup for a resilient team that ignited in September to win the National League East title.

Garrett carried his momentum into October, saving some of his best moments for the postseason. After hitting a key home run against Cincinnati in the NLCS, he made the World Series against the strong Oakland Athletics his personal showcase. Leading off for the Mets, he hit two memorable home runs in the seven-game series, showing a tough, big-game spirit that won the hearts of Shea Stadium fans forever.

Garrett stayed a key presence in Flushing for two more full seasons, reliably playing third base. His extended time in New York ended in July 1976, when the front office traded him to the Montreal Expos in exchange for Pepe Mangual. He left Queens after serving the organization for seven and a half years, leaving behind 586 hits, 52 home runs, and a respected legacy as a core player in the Mets' first two pennant-winning teams.