Mets News: David Wright gives superfan with Autism surprise of a lifetime

Although David Wright’s playing career might be over, the former New York Mets third baseman is still finding ways to make fans cheer.

This month, former New York Mets star David Wright surprised one major fan with a secret virtual visit.

After partnering with Autism Speaks, the nation’s leading autism advocacy group, the former All-Star is spreading a bit of kindness through their new program, ‘Kindness Connections.’

On December 14, Wright surprised Daniel, a Staten Island native and ardent Mets fan with a virtual visit where they discussed Daniel’s favorite Mets moments and Wright’s career with the team.

Over the course of his distinguished career, Wright has been the leader of this team and a role model for young ballplayers everywhere.

Connecting with the fans isn’t anything new for Number 5. In fact, since launching the David Wright Foundation in 2005, it has become an integral part of his ongoing commitment toward enhancing the quality of life for children in need.

Since playing in his final Major League game on September 29, 2018 and closing out a remarkable 14-year career that featured: a National League Pennant, a World Series appearance, seven All-Star honors, two silver-slugger awards, and countless more accolades, David Wright continues to lead and thrill Mets fans to this day.

Through the Autism Speaks Organization, I was able to get a hold of Daniel to talk about what this experience means to him and what he’s looking forward to most about his favorite team, heading into the 2021 season.

What was it like to connect virtually with David Wright? What was your favorite part of this kindness connection?

My favorite part of the connection with David Wright is that he wants to meet me in person.  It was an awesome experience to meet him via zoom and I’ll never forget it!

What is your favorite David Wright moment?

My favorite David Wright moment is his home run derby performance in 2006.

Who is your favorite current Mets player and why?

My favorite Mets player is Pete Alonso because of his home run record and his performance during the home run derby.

Which free agent do you want the Mets to acquire above all other available players?

If we can get Trevor Bauer, I’d say we’re locked and loaded.

What would be another Amazin’ moment you would like to take part in, given the opportunity?

If the old-timers game takes place next year or in the future, I want to umpire it! I’m a youth sports, high school baseball umpire and always wanted to step in Citi Field as an umpire.

Founded in 2005, the Autism Speaks Organization has continued its mission to sponsor research and spread awareness for people on the spectrum. Through their “Kindness Connections” program, they’ve also reinforced the simple power of a kind act.

“To end a year as unpredictable as 2020, we wanted to showcase uplifting stories that demonstrate the simple power of kindness,” said Lisa Goring, chief strategic initiatives and innovation officer of Autism Speaks.

“Kindness Connections are meant to surprise and delight people on the spectrum by connecting them with what they love most. Our hope is that by sharing the diversity of our community, we will see meaningful progress toward our work to increase understanding and acceptance of people with autism.”

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Special thank you to Autism Speaks and Daniel for his time and his lifetime passion for the Mets and David Wright. For more information about Autism Speaks and their new “Kindness Connections” program, visit their website here.