For Sean Manaea, wearing the New York Mets jersey holds more than one meaning. While he cherishes the opportunity to be a Metsie, there’s a deeper personal meaning to the number 59 that he wears. Wearing that number is his way of giving tribute to his oldest brother David, who tragically passed away in January. 

Manaea was extremely close to his brother who he felt was more like a close uncle due to their 28-year age gap. Still, for Sean Manaea, David was like a shining light, a guide. “David was the absolute man,” Manaea said to The Athletic. During the interview, Manaea shared countless memories with his older brother. “He was just f*****g awesome,” Sean said remembering the time David took him to his first Chicago Bears game and bought him a Bears jersey. 

David passed away on January 5 due to cancer. Manaea learned of his brother’s passing via a phone call in the morning. He was in Mexico attending a friend’s wedding. That day became even more significant for the pitcher because later that night he agreed to a two-year deal with the New York Mets. “A lot of contrasting emotions that day,” Manaea revealed. 

At the time of his demise, David was 59 years old. As a result, Manaea decided to take that number. It was his way of remembering his big brother – the person who gave him the first taste of sports fandom. “However I can, I just want to carry on his memory,” Manaea declared.  For the star pitcher, it was nothing short of shocking that his brother passed away. He never realized how aggressively the cancer had spread. As a result, he wishes he could do more for his brother. 

Sean Manaea’s tribute translates to great performances

The Mets’ no. 59 has been nothing short of extraordinary this season. In 2 games pitched, Manaea has a ridiculously low ERA of just 0.82. In 11 innings he has given just 4 hits and 1 run. That is by far the best start to a campaign that Manaea has had throughout his career. Perhaps the thoughts of his brother are acting as a huge motivational force for Manaea. 

The fact that Manaea has struck out 14 batters already also shows the remarkable improvement he has shown this season. In a way, it seems he’s using that regret of not doing more as a tool to give his brother the biggest of tributes. Manaea noted that in every step of his baseball journey, David was always there to support him. Now he has his number and that is pushing Manaea towards something extraordinary.

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