NewsWright's 836th start at third a Mets record
Third baseman passes hitting coach and mentor Johnson
By Marty Noble and Jesse Sanchez / MLB.com
09/26/09 1:20 AM ET
MIAMI -- David Wright made Mets history at the hot corner on Friday night.Wright's start in a 6-5 victory over the Marlins was the 836th of his career at third base, the most starts at the position in franchise history. Former Mets star Howard Johnson previously held the record, with 835.
"I knew he'd pass me. It was just a matter of time," Johnson said. "He's young and healthy. It didn't take him long."
Johnson played shortstop and all three outfield positions during his nine-year tenure with the Mets. Wright has played 5 1/2 seasons and played one defensive position.
"When I got here, they told me third base had been a revolving door," Johnson said. "I passed Wayne Garrett [711 games]. But I guess with me and Robin Ventura, [Edgardo Alfonzo], Jeff Kent and now David, it's been pretty stable for a while."
Indeed, third base once was the position that most challenged the Mets. But it has lost that distinction. For years the Mets had more third basemen, beginning with the 1962 season, than any team. But they eventually were passed in the 1980s by the Angels and, despite the presence of Graig Nettles and Clete Boyer, the Yankees.
Wright, as he is about most milestones, was mostly unimpressed. He said he would recall the circumstances, passing his buddy with HoJo in the house. And he was pleased to have remained healthy and productive enough to remain a regular player.
"I take a lot of pride in everything I do," Wright said.
Marty Noble and Jesse Sanchez are reporters for MLB.com. This story was not subject to the approval of Major League Baseball or its clubs.
