Ed Kranepool, a beloved figure in New York Mets history and a key member of the 1969 “Miracle Mets,” passed away on Wednesday at the age of 79 in a hospital in Palm Beach, Florida. The Mets organization confirmed his death, which followed a cardiac arrest. Kranepool’s remarkable 18-year career, spent entirely with the Mets, made him one of the franchise’s most enduring icons.
A native of the Bronx, Kranepool debuted for the Mets at just 17 years old during their inaugural season in 1962. Over his career, he became the longest-tenured player in team history, participating in a franchise-record 1,853 games. He was a key player during the Mets’ astonishing 1969 World Series win, hitting a critical home run in Game 3 against the Baltimore Orioles. This victory is still celebrated as one of the most surprising championship runs in baseball history【6】【7】.
Kranepool was inducted into the Mets Hall of Fame in 1990. Beyond his on-field achievements, he was highly regarded for his contributions to the community and his ongoing involvement with the Mets organization after retiring in 1979. Despite battling health challenges in later years, including diabetes and a successful kidney transplant in 2019, Kranepool remained a cherished ambassador for the team【6】【7】.
Mets owners Steve and Alex Cohen expressed deep sadness, noting how Kranepool’s presence brought the franchise’s history to life. Teammates and fans alike remembered him for his humility and passion, with 1969 teammate Art Shamsky describing his passing as a profound loss to the Mets family【7】.
Kranepool’s legacy includes an All-Star appearance in 1965 and his enduring status as a fan favorite. His contributions to the Mets and baseball as a whole leave an indelible mark on the sport.
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