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Keith Hernandez has apologized after referring to former New York Mets players as "garbage" during a live television broadcast, admitting the comment was a poor choice of words.
The 72-year-old former Major League Baseball star and current SportsNet New York (SNY) analyst made the remark during the Mets' game against the Cleveland Guardians on Tuesday, Aug. 4. His comments came a day after the MLB trade deadline, when the Mets significantly reshaped their roster by trading away several players.
While discussing the team's changes with play-by-play announcer Gary Cohen, Hernandez said the organization had "brought in the truck and took out all the garbage," suggesting the moves marked a fresh start for the struggling franchise.
He quickly added that the changes represented a turnaround for the club, but the remark drew attention for appearing to insult players who had just been traded.
After returning from a commercial break, Hernandez addressed the comment and apologized on air.
He admitted that describing the outgoing players as "garbage" was inappropriate and acknowledged that the words came out wrong. Hernandez emphasized that the Mets had actually parted ways with several talented players and said he regretted using the phrase.
"I can't believe that word came out of my mouth," he said before offering a sincere apology to anyone offended by the comment.
The remarks came shortly after the Mets, who entered the day with a 49-66 record, completed a series of trades aimed at rebuilding for the future.
Among the players moved were Clay Holmes and Tyrone Taylor, who were traded to the Chicago Cubs. Relief pitchers Luke Weaver, Brooks Raley, and Huascar Brazobán were also dealt to the Pittsburgh Pirates, Philadelphia Phillies, and Chicago White Sox, respectively.
The roster overhaul followed additional moves involving pitcher Freddy Peralta, who was traded to the Tampa Bay Rays, A.J. Minter, who joined the Minnesota Twins, and David Peterson, who was also sent to the Cubs.
The organization received several minor league prospects in return as it continues to reshape the team for future seasons.
Hernandez has remained one of the most recognizable voices covering the Mets since joining the SNY broadcast team. Earlier this year, he signed a new contract with the network that is expected to keep him in the broadcast booth for at least the next three seasons.
The former first baseman enjoyed a distinguished playing career before transitioning into broadcasting, where he has become known for his candid analysis and strong opinions. His latest remarks, however, prompted him to quickly clarify his intent and publicly apologize, making it clear he did not mean to disrespect the players who had recently departed the organization.
