"I stopped because of my kids" - Mets' Billy Wagner claims 'it's not the real Hall of Fame' if he is snubbed because he had 'other responsibilities'

Billy Wagner, the former closer for the New York Mets, recently talked about his thoughts on narrowly missing out on induction into the MLB Hall of Fame. The emotional moment, captured by NBC Nightly News during a practice session, showed the harsh reality of coming so close to baseball’s highest honor.

"I stopped because of my kids. I wanted to coach them and be a part of their lives [...] If I don’t make the Hall of Fame because I chose my kids, then it’s not the real Hall of Fame. I was plenty good number-wise, but I had other responsibilities."

Wagner, a seven-time All-Star and one-time Reliever of the Year retired with a 2.31 ERA, 422 saves, 1,196 strikeouts, and a 0.99 WHIP throughout of his career. Despite these great numbers, he barely missed induction into the Hall of Fame by just five votes short of the 75% voting threshold.

"It’s tough to remain humble when you find out you fell just five votes short."

Despite the setback, Wagner is still hopeful about his final year of eligibility on the BBWAA ballot:

"I’m blessed to still have a shot [...] Not everyone gets this opportunity. Great names come and go, and I’m happy to be in the conversation."

Billy Wagner made it clear that family has always been a priority over baseball for him

For Billy Wagner, family comes before baseball, as he made clear during the recent interview regarding his near-miss induction into the MLB Hall of Fame. (IMAGN)

Driven by family commitments, Wagner retired after a great season with the Atlanta Braves in 2010.

"I can’t get any more saves or lower my ERA [...] I have to teach the kids to be humble and sometimes that sucks."

For Wagner, the choice to prioritize his family over extending his baseball career is a source of pride, not regret.

As Wagner eyes his final chance at induction, he reflects on what truly matters. While the prospect of deciding which cap to wear in the Hall of Fame has crossed his mind, his focus now remains on securing those last five votes.