Billy Wagner hasn’t always been a fan favorite in the New York. His outspoken ways, coupled with blown saves have caused the fans to come down on the Amazin’s closer, but he’s taken it all in stride. Today’s Post has an in-depth interview with Wagner has he sat down with writer Steve Serby.

While some of the interview is the standard fluff that players feed the media, other parts are very candid, in the style Mets fans have gotten to know Wagner.

He thinks Joba Chamberlain should remain in the Yankee bullpen.

He feels Philadelphia fans are tougher on their players and despise New York because they lack recognition and live in the shadow of the Big Apple.

He let fans into his own personal life. About his four kids and how they raise Alpaca’s (something Phillies fans love to bring up), on his Virginia farm. He brought up how he’s always felt like an under dog, given his small stature and growing up without any money. He had to work harder then the other guy to get ahead, which is part of the reason he has such a prosperous career in the major leagues.

He also said he’s never eaten a bagel. Come on Billy, I know you’re from the south, but you’re a New Yorker now. It’s time to take the plunge.

What did stick out in my head were Wagner’s thoughts on retirement, and his position on where is career stands after his contract with the Mets expired.

Wagner made it clear that there’s a 99% percent chance that next season will not only be his final season as a member of the Mets, but as an active major league player. While he’s still at the top of his game, he prefers to devote more time to spending with his children and watch them grow up.

Of course some things factor into that decision, as he wants to retire as the Mets all-time saves leader. While I do find it interesting that Wagner plans on retiring to devote time to his children (something you don’t see much these days), we’ve seen plenty athletes jockey the retirement fence (is Roger Clemens coming back again?). Given that Wagner mentions he wants to break John Franco’s Mets record prior to retirement, that one percent window might be open wide.