ChrisThe New York Mets family and baseball fans are mourning the loss of Ed Kranepool, a legendary figure and member of the 1969 “Miracle Mets,” who passed away on December 3, 2024, at the age of 79 due to cardiac arrest. Kranepool was an integral part of Mets history, not only as a player but also as a lifelong ambassador for the franchise.
Born in the Bronx on November 8, 1944, Kranepool joined the Mets in their inaugural 1962 season as a 17-year-old. He went on to spend his entire 18-year Major League Baseball career with the team, becoming their longest-tenured player. His contributions to the Mets include pivotal moments such as hitting a crucial home run in Game 3 of the 1969 World Series, which helped secure their first championship. Known for his steady presence, Kranepool ended his career as the franchise’s all-time leader in games played (1,853) and ranks highly in several other statistical categories, including hits, RBIs, and doubles.
Kranepool’s career was marked by perseverance and dedication. He battled diabetes after retiring in 1979 and underwent a successful kidney transplant in 2019. Despite these health challenges, he remained actively involved with the Mets community, sharing stories from the team’s history and inspiring new generations of fans and players.
Mets owner Steve Cohen and manager Carlos Mendoza expressed their deep sorrow over his passing, calling Kranepool a fan favorite and an irreplaceable part of the team’s legacy. The team plans to honor his memory with tributes celebrating his life and career, emphasizing his contributions both on and off the field.
The Mets and their fans remember Kranepool not only for his achievements but also for his role as a symbol of loyalty and resilience. His passing marks the end of an era for the organization, but his legacy as a key figure in Mets history and the Miracle Mets’ triumph of 1969 will endure.
