New York Mets legend Keith Hernandez may have a successful broadcasting career, but his 1992 acting stint remains a significant source of income. The former first baseman famously played himself in the two-part Seinfeld episode titled The Boyfriend. Decades later, Hernandez confirmed that he still receives substantial royalty checks from the iconic sitcom.
"It varies, but I can tell you that on an annual basis I’m getting close to $5,000 still. It’s the gift that keeps giving," Hernandez told the SI Media Podcast. He noted that his status as a guest star on the show helped secure these long-term payouts. His infamous line, "I'm Keith Hernandez," has since become a staple of New York sports culture and the title of two documentaries.
The episode centered on a fictional spitting incident involving Kramer and Newman, which Hernandez’s character eventually debunked. While many athletes have appeared on the series, few have seen the financial longevity that Hernandez enjoys. Other New York stars like Derek Jeter and Bernie Williams also made appearances during the show’s legendary run.
Former New York Yankees outfielder Paul O'Neill also famously appeared in the Season 7 episode titled The Wink. However, O'Neill revealed in 2024 that his residuals are not nearly on the same level as his Mets counterpart. "Yeah, they're like 57 bucks," O'Neill said while calling a Yankees game, adding that it’s more of a cool reminder than a payday.
The disparity in pay highlights the unique success of the episodes featuring Hernandez, which remain some of the most popular in television history. Even George Steinbrenner was a recurring character on the show, voiced by co-creator Larry David while a stunt double was used for on-screen scenes. The real Steinbrenner even filmed a scene that ultimately never made the final cut.
As the 2026 baseball season approaches, Hernandez continues to be a fixture in the Mets' broadcast booth. His transition from the field to the mic and the small screen serves as a common sense model for athletes looking to build a lasting brand. For fans in New York, Hernandez remains a beloved figure whose legacy is reinforced every time a Seinfeld rerun hits the air.