Jerry Koosman, Star of 1969 'Miracle' Mets, Dies at 83

Jerry Koosman, the iconic left-handed pitcher who played a pivotal role in the New York Mets' historic 1969 World Series victory, has died at the age of 83, reportedly according to multiple sources. Known for his remarkable consistency and durability, Koosman was inducted into the Mets Hall of Fame in 1989 and saw his number 36 jersey retired by the team in 2021, cementing his legacy as one of the franchise’s greatest players.

Koosman's journey to the major leagues began unexpectedly, when he was signed by the Mets from the U.S. Army in August 1964. He made his MLB debut three years later in April 1967, quickly becoming a cornerstone of the Mets’ rotation. His standout performance in 1968, where he achieved an impressive 2.08 ERA and earned All-Star recognition, set the stage for his crucial contributions in the following year's World Series.

During the 1969 season, Koosman maintained an outstanding ERA of 2.28, which was instrumental in the Mets' improbable rise to the top. This season saw the Mets, who had never been above .500 after nine games in their first seven years, emerge as the 'Miracle' or 'Amazin'' Mets, capturing the hearts of fans and defying expectations. Koosman's impact on the team was undeniable, especially in the World Series, where he made two starts, including the decisive Game 5 win against the Baltimore Orioles.

Throughout his career, Koosman demonstrated exceptional longevity and reliability. From 1968 to 1976, he averaged 223 innings per season with a solid ERA of 2.94. His consistent performance earned him a place on the All-Star roster twice and even garnered him second-place votes for the 1976 Cy Young Award. Despite trading to other teams like the Minnesota Twins, Chicago White Sox, and Philadelphia Phillies, Koosman remained a dominant force on the mound until his retirement after the 1985 season.

Koosman's achievements include holding the most wins among left-handed pitchers in Mets history (140) and ranking second in innings pitched and third in strikeouts. These accolades highlight his significant contribution to the team's success over the years. Although he did not make it to the Baseball Writers Association of America's Hall of Fame, his induction into the Mets Hall of Fame and the retirement of his jersey number underscore his enduring status as a beloved figure in Mets lore.

What we know

• - Koosman died at the age of 83. ¹²
• - He was inducted into the Mets Hall of Fame in 1989 and had his number 36 retired in 2021. ¹²
• - Koosman had an ERA of 2.28 during the 1969 season. ¹²
• - He was signed from the U.S. Army by the Mets in August 1964. ¹
• - Koosman made his MLB debut in April 1967. ¹
• - In 1968, he had a 2.08 ERA and was selected as an All-Star. ¹
• - During the 1969 World Series, Koosman made two starts, including the Game 5 clincher. ¹
• - From 1968 to 1976, he had a 2.94 ERA and averaged 223 innings per season. ¹
• - The Mets traded Koosman to the Minnesota Twins in December 1978. ¹
• - He played for the Twins, White Sox, and Phillies before retiring in 1985. ¹
• - Koosman retired with a 222-209 record and a 3.36 ERA. ¹
• - He ranks 39th in ERA among AL/NL pitchers with at least 3,500 career innings. ¹
• - Koosman is ranked 35th all-time in strikeouts, 40th in starts, and 48th in innings. ¹
• - He has 57.0 pitching WAR, ranking 77th all-time. ¹
• - Koosman went to two All-Star Games and finished second in the 1976 Cy Young voting. ¹
• - He holds the most wins among left-handed pitchers in Mets history. ¹
• - Koosman is second in Mets history in innings pitched and third in strikeouts. ¹
• - He fell off the Baseball Writers Association of America's Hall of Fame ballot in 1991. ¹
• - Koosman played 12 out of his 19 seasons with the Mets. ²
• - The Mets had never been above .500 after nine games in their first seven years. ²
• - The 1969 Mets team was nicknamed both 'Amazin'' and 'Miracle'. ²