CORONA — Mets legend and future Hall of Famer Mike Piazza praised his time on the Mets as one of the most important times in his life, as he was honored during a ceremony with State Sen. Jose Peralta and Gov. Andrew Cuomo.
The former catcher, who played with other teams during his career, elected to be inducted into the hall of fame in their upcoming July ceremony wearing the orange and blue of Queens' team.
Piazza, who beamed during the ceremony in Albany on Wednesday, added that "being traded to New York was the biggest blessing in my life."
Peralta praised Piazza's decision to be inducted as a Met, calling it "big news for New York City and my district, which includes Citi Field.”
“Mike Piazza defended the New York Mets colors with passion,” Peralta added.
During his tour of Albany, Piazza also received the first "official state bat" from Gov. Andrew Cuomo.
Gov. Cuomo presents "the first state bat" to legendary ball player Mike Piazza! pic.twitter.com/Wf9VIATJQd
— Cathy Fahey (@CathyFahey7) March 9, 2016
Despite being eligible four years ago, rumors over Piazza's possible use of steroids delayed his induction into the Hall of Fame, according to reports.
He denied using any performance enhancing drugs and never failed a drug test.
