Mets broadcasting legend Howie Rose announces he is retiring after nearly 40 years

Rose, 72, said the decision to retire did not come easily to him, and it's something he has gone back and forth on.

"Now, trust me, I did not arrive at this decision to retire easily. I've been going back and forth in my mind about it for the last few years. But the simple reality is that I'm 72 years old, and my wife Barbara, who has sacrificed so much for so long, deserves to have her husband around a little more often, whether she likes it or not."

Rose said he will not be making a "clean break" and will still be involved after this season. He cited the love the fans have given as a reason it's hard to let go. 

"Hopefully, I'll be involved now and then in some still-to-be-determined capacity because for me, letting go of the Mets isn't hard. It's impossible. And one of the biggest reasons for that is the bond that we've created with each other through all these years. The warmth, acceptance, and yes, love that you've shown me in so many ways for so long makes this all the more difficult. And I return those feelings in kind," Rose said.

"I'm always honored to start the season by MCing opening day at Citi Field, but this year in particular, I would like nothing better than to bookend that by serving as master of ceremonies on the steps of City Hall after a trip down the Canyon of Heroes immediately following the season," Rose said.

"That would make this dream that I've lived complete."