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- calendar_today November 2, 2026
Jerry Koosman Remembered for World Series Triumph
Jerry Koosman, the All-Star left-handed pitcher celebrated for getting the final out in the New York Mets’ historic 1969 World Series victory, died on Sunday at the age of 83. Mets spokesman Jay Horwitz confirmed that Koosman, who had been ill for about a year, passed away in Osceola, Wisconsin, surrounded by his children.
The Iconic Moment in Mets History
One of the most iconic images in baseball captures Koosman jumping into catcher Jerry Grote's arms as the two celebrated the conclusion of the 1969 World Series on the mound at Shea Stadium. That moment symbolized not just the win, but also a major turnaround for the Mets, who had never previously finished with a winning record before their 'Miracle' season in 1969.
Recounting the historic moment, Koosman had said in Peter Golenbock’s 2002 book, “Amazin’: The Miraculous History of New York’s Most Beloved Baseball Team,” “We were so choked up with emotion we couldn’t talk.”
An Accomplished Baseball Career
Koosman’s career as a major league pitcher spanned 19 seasons, during which he compiled a record of 222-209 with a 3.36 ERA. Renowned for his fastballs and curveballs, he notched 140 complete games, including 33 shutouts, and twice won 20 games in a season.
From 1967 to 1978, Koosman was a central figure in mets pitching, going 140-137 with a 3.09 ERA. He later pitched for the Minnesota Twins (1979-81), Chicago White Sox (1981-83), and Philadelphia Phillies (1984-85).
In a 2019 interview with Mets broadcaster Howie Rose, Koosman reflected, "I feared losing. I didn't want to be looked upon as a loser by anyone."
The 1969 Miracle Mets Season
The Mets, who had lost 100 games in five of their first seven seasons since their 1962 inception, experienced a dramatic turnaround in 1969. On September 10, they surged into first place during a 10-game winning streak, ultimately finishing atop the National League East with a 100-62 record.
As the team’s number-two starter behind Tom Seaver, Koosman recorded a 17-9 record and 2.28 ERA in 32 starts. In the National League Championship Series, although he was knocked out in the fifth inning of Game 2 against Atlanta, the Mets went on to sweep the Braves.
Koosman made a pivotal contribution in the 1969 World Series: after Baltimore took the opener, Koosman pitched 8 2/3 innings, allowing only one run, to secure the Mets’ win in Game 2. He later pitched a five-hitter in Game 5, retiring Davey Johnson for the final out as fans stormed the field, sealing the world series victory for New York.
Life and Career Beyond New York
Born on December 23, 1942, in Appleton, Minnesota, Koosman played baseball while stationed with the U.S. Army at Fort Bragg. His journey to the Mets began after a connection from his catcher, John Luchese, whose father worked as a Shea Stadium usher. Koosman signed with the Mets in 1964 for $1,600 and steadily progressed through the minor leagues, making his major league debut in April 1967.
His rookie season in 1968 stood out as he finished 19-12 with a 2.08 ERA, striking out legendary hitter Carl Yastrzemski in the All-Star Game and finishing runner-up for NL Rookie of the Year.
Koosman remained with the Mets until 1978, contributing to another World Series run in 1973. After requesting a trade, he was sent to the Twins and later played for the White Sox and Phillies before retiring.
Legacy and Survivors
Koosman’s No. 36 was retired by the Mets in 2021 in recognition of his achievements. He is survived by his sons, Michael and Shawn, and daughter, Danielle. His marriage to LaVonne Sorum ended in divorce.
Source: mprnews.org.
