Bud Harrelson, a beloved figure in New York Mets history, passed away at the age of 79, as announced by the team on Thursday. Harrelson, a two-time All-Star shortstop, played a pivotal role in the Mets’ 1969 World Series victory. He also had stints with the Philadelphia Phillies and Texas Rangers throughout his career.
Mets owner, Steve Cohen, and his wife Alex expressed their sadness over Harrelson’s passing in a heartfelt statement. They praised him as a skilled defender and a vital member of the “Miracle Mets” team. Harrelson holds the record for the most games played at shortstop in Mets history and was known for his exceptional ability to field.
Furthermore, the statement highlighted Harrelson’s continued involvement with the team as their third base coach during their 1986 World Series-winning campaign. He became the only person to have been in uniform for both of the Mets’ World Series victories. The Mets expressed their deepest condolences to the entire Harrelson family during this difficult time.
SNY reported that Harrelson had been battling Alzheimer’s disease. Despite this, he still showcased his talent and was selected as an All-Star in 1970 and 1971. In 1971, he also earned a Gold Glove award for his outstanding defensive skills. Harrelson’s contributions to the Mets’ success cannot be understated.
Not only was Harrelson a player, but he also had a brief stint as the Mets’ manager. He took over the managerial position during the latter half of 1990 and the first half of 1991, accumulating a record of 145 wins and 129 losses. His impact on the team extended beyond his playing days.
The Harrelson family announced that there will be a celebration of life for Bud Harrelson at a later date. His legacy as an influential member of the Mets organization will undoubtedly be remembered and cherished by fans and teammates alike. The Mets have lost a true baseball legend. Lastly, make sure to stay updated with Fox News Digital’s comprehensive sports coverage and subscribe to the Fox News Sports Huddle newsletter for the latest updates.