Big Apple Heroes: New York's Most Loved Athletes

(Photo by Ezra Shaw/Getty Images)

Recently, Mike Kent put together a nice article on what he believed to be the top 10 fan-favorites in the state of New York.

I was lucky enough to spend the first three years of my life in New York and, while I cannot remember many athletes (or remember anything in general), I thought I should give this list a shot of my own.

I hope you enjoy the following, and don't forget to check out Mike's either for a second opinion!

10. Leon Washington, Running Back for the New York Jets

Sometimes called the Sparkplug of the Jets, Leon Washington is one of the few players in the NFL who is an invaluable asset to his team but somehow unknown in other parts of the country.

Washington gives the Jets an added running threat and also is one of the best return men in the game today. Hopefully Leon can see more touches this year, which should please fans of the J-E-T-S, considering he is even more liked than starting NY back, Thomas Jones.

9. Henrik Lundgvist, Goaltender for the New York Rangers

One of the best young goalies in the NHL today, Henrik has been nothing short of great. He has accomplished many things in his short career thus far, including the All-Rookie team, an All-Star game, and he is also the first goalie in NHL history to win 30 or more games in his first four seasons.

After signing a recent six year contract making him the highest paid goalie in the NHL, I know all New York hockey fans are looking forward to his time in front of the net.

8. Johan Santana, Starting Pitcher for the New York Mets

Arguably the best pitcher in all of Major League Baseball, and quite possibly the best the NL has to offer, Johan has been a tremendous asset to the Mets. Santana quickly learned last season that he would have to go deep into games due to the lack of bullpen help, something he did many times.

During the playoff hunt towards the end of the season, Santana even elected to pitch on only three days rest, something very uncommon for such an ace. Santana looks to use the revamped pen and high powered offense to lead the Mets to the playoffs, and hopefully the World Series.

7. Mariano Rivera, Closer for the New York Yankees

Mariano has held the hearts of all New Yorkers since his early days. As he nears the end of his long and storied career, many Yankee fans have their favorite Sandman memory.

Being the last member of the MLB wearing the number 42, the number will disappear from baseball forever very shortly, and Yankee fans treasure the moment every time Mo touches the mound. 

6. Eli Manning, Quarterback for the New York Giants

Having the quarterbacking position in New York poses two "giant" problems. The first being the stadium. It has oft been reported that there can often be winds going in two different directions depending on where you are seated, making it an obvious problems for all quarterbacks alike.

The second problem? Us. The media. Anyone who decides that the young Manning isn't good enough. Eli made a strong case for himself however in 2007, taking down the mighty (and undefeated Patriots) in Super Bowl XLII.

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