Trump Grants Pardon to Former Mets Star Darryl Strawberry

President Donald Trump has granted a full pardon to former Major League Baseball player Darryl Strawberry, who faced past convictions for tax evasion and drug-related offenses. The announcement comes as Strawberry, a celebrated member of the New York Mets, continues to advocate for his faith and sobriety, having embraced Christianity after a tumultuous career and personal life.

Strawberry, known for his impressive achievements on the field, including winning the 1986 World Series with the Mets, faced significant challenges following his retirement. His legal troubles began when he was indicted for tax evasion in the mid-1990s, ultimately pleading guilty to failing to report approximately $350,000 in income from various sources, including memorabilia sales. He agreed to pay over $430,000 to settle the matter.

In a statement from a White House official, it was noted that Trump’s decision to pardon Strawberry was influenced by the former athlete’s transformation and commitment to his faith. Strawberry has been sober for over a decade and has become active in ministry, even starting a recovery center to assist others in overcoming addiction.

On social media, Strawberry expressed his gratitude, sharing a personal account of receiving the pardon. He described a phone call from Trump, during which the president praised his baseball career and announced the pardon. Strawberry reflected on the emotional impact of the call, stating, “I’m overwhelmed with gratitude—thank you, God, for setting me free from my past.”

Throughout his career, Strawberry played for several teams, including the New York Yankees and the Los Angeles Dodgers, earning eight All-Star selections and hitting a total of 335 home runs over his 17-year career. His struggles with addiction and legal issues have been well-documented, including a felony charge related to drug possession and multiple probation violations.

In recent days, Trump’s pardons have drawn attention, as he has also granted pardons to other public figures, including a former Republican speaker in Tennessee. This pattern of pardons has raised discussions about the nature of clemency in the political landscape, particularly concerning individuals with celebrity status or political connections.

Strawberry’s journey from a troubled past to a focus on faith and community service highlights the potential for redemption and transformation. His story resonates with many, as he continues to share his experiences in hopes of inspiring others to overcome their challenges.

As of March 15, 2024, Strawberry’s remarkable journey has led him back into the public eye, especially after the recent retirement of his jersey number, 18, by the Mets. In a heartfelt message to fans, he expressed his deep appreciation for their support, stating, “I never played baseball in front of fans greater than you guys.”