Evan Roberts Proposes David Cone as Potential Future Mets Broadcaster

By: [Your Name] | February 9, 2026

In a recent episode of the podcast Rico Brogna, which covers the New York Mets in depth, host Evan Roberts discussed several key topics regarding the team’s offseason moves, player updates, and more. One of the more intriguing moments from his February 4th episode titled “The Rico 10” came when Roberts threw out an idea for the Mets’ future broadcasting team. It wasn’t a prediction, but more of a thoughtful proposition on what could come next as the iconic voices of Keith Hernandez and Ron Darling approach the end of their careers.

Roberts suggested that the Mets should consider bringing in a familiar face from the New York Yankees organization: David Cone. A former Mets pitcher, Cone could be the ideal replacement for Hernandez or Darling when they eventually retire from the broadcast booth.

A Thoughtful Proposal: Bringing Cone Back to Queens

This wasn’t based on any insider information, but rather a logical thought process from Roberts about the Mets’ broadcasting future. With Hernandez and Darling both likely nearing retirement, Roberts thought that bringing in David Cone—a well-respected ex-player and accomplished broadcaster—would be the perfect move for the Mets.

Cone, who played for the Mets from 1987 to 1992, spent significant time in the Yankees’ broadcast booth after his playing days ended. Since 2001, Cone has been a color commentator for the YES Network, but there’s a notable history between Cone and the Mets. After his baseball retirement, the Mets offered him a job in broadcasting, but he turned it down for family reasons. Cone later returned to the Yankees’ booth but has since become an essential voice for their broadcast team.

In considering Cone’s connection to both the Mets and Yankees, Roberts made a compelling argument: Cone has been a prominent voice in the booth for years and knows the ins and outs of New York baseball, making him an ideal candidate to join the Mets’ booth. Plus, Cone’s familiarity with Hernandez and Darling—as teammates during his Mets tenure—would make the transition smooth.

What Does the Future Hold for Hernandez and Darling?

With Keith Hernandez nearly a decade older than Ron Darling, it seems likely that Hernandez will be the first of the two to retire from broadcasting. While no exit plan has been confirmed for either Hernandez or Darling, both remain integral parts of the Mets’ gameday experience, and the fanbase still cherishes their time behind the mic.

If Hernandez were to retire, a broadcast trio featuring Cone, Darling, and Gary Cohen could be on the horizon. That combination of former Mets players with Cohen’s steady voice would be a dream scenario for many Mets fans. The prospect of a Mets booth with Cone and Cohen would certainly be an interesting dynamic, and likely bring a new energy to the broadcast for a new generation of Mets fans.

Cone’s Current Role: A Short-Term Solution?

While Cone is expected to call around 60 Yankees games this year, which is fewer than the 95 games Hernandez will handle for the Mets, it’s unclear if Cone would be a long-term fixture in the Mets’ booth. However, if Hernandez were to retire in the next few years, Cone could serve as a stop-gap broadcaster, filling in for Hernandez until the Mets find a permanent replacement. This would likely include home games and possibly a few road games within close proximity.

While Cone in the Mets booth is a great possibility, there are other former Mets players who could be candidates to join the booth long-term, such as Daniel Murphy, Curtis Granderson, and Todd Zeile. These players, known for their leadership and eloquence, could eventually make the transition from player to broadcaster, following in the footsteps of other former players who became fan favorites on the airwaves.

The Future of GKR: Enjoying the Present

Regardless of who replaces Hernandez and Darling in the future, Mets fans are still able to enjoy the iconic GKR (Gary, Keith, and Ron) trio for the time being. As the Mets prepare for the 2026 season, Roberts’ proposal of David Cone serves as a fun and thoughtful way to imagine what the future of Mets broadcasts could look like. With several former Mets players potentially entering the booth one day, it’s clear that the legacy of Hernandez and Darling will live on in various forms, whether through Cone, Murphy, Granderson, or others.

But for now, let’s continue to enjoy the legendary voices of GKR, whether it’s GKR or perhaps eventually GRD or GKD. One thing is for sure—the Mets’ broadcast booth will continue to evolve, and as Roberts suggests, David Cone could be a big part of that future.