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The only constant in the New York Mets’ 1969 and 1986 World Series wins, Buddy Harrelson has passed away after a long battle with Alzheimer’s. He was 79. A legendary figure in New York, Harrelson was part of many memorable moments in his illustrious 15-year career, 13 of which he spent in the New York Mets.

Part of the squad that turned a newly created Mets into the Amazin’ Mets we know today, Harrelson’s contribution to baseball, continued past his playing days. First as a coach, then a manager, and finally a team owner, he spent his whole life being associated with this great sport. Fans were quick to pay tribute to this great legend.

Bud Harrelson – The original Amazin’ Met

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Harrelson was never a heavy hitter. In fact, his light-hitting skills often faced criticism. But he remained a popular figure with the team as well as the fans. This was because of his undying love for the Mets as well as remarkable defensive skills. He played two All-Star Games and also was a Gold-Glove winner once. But he’s perhaps most known for his incident with the legend Pete Rose.

In Game 3 of the 1973 NLCS, on a double play, Rose slid hard into Harrelson at second base. As a result, the two ended up wrestling in the infield dirt, which triggered a bench-clearing brawl between the teams. This became an iconic moment in both Rose and Harrelson’s career. After retirement, both became good friends, with Harrelson sharing that Rose signed a photo of their fight and wrote, “Thanks for making me famous.” 

Harrelson is also a two-time World Series winner with the Mets. He won it first as a player in 1969 and then as a third base coach in 1986. But according to him, his greatest baseball achievement was starting and running the independent minor league team, Long Island Ducks, of which he was a part-owner. 

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The legend’s name is forever etched in the New York Mets’ history. As a result, the news of his demise made the fans emotional.

“My favorite player”, fans remember the legend

Buddy Harrelson was always a subject of admiration for the New York Mets fans. His contribution to the team’s golden era was hidden to none. Perhaps that’s why fans affectionately call Harrelson “A true Met”.

A fan shared how he paid tribute to Harrelson by playing in a No. 3 jersey in his Little League career.

Harrelson’s contribution to the Long Island Ducks also got a mention by fans.

One fan shared the interaction he had with Harrelson after he was appointed as the Mets’ manager.

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Harrelson’s massive contribution to the Mets’ 1969 World Series win is something that the fans can never forget.

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Rest in peace Buddy! the eternal inspiration of every baseball fan. There will never be another.

Read more: New York Mets Star Leaves a Young Fan With a Memory That the MLB World Would Easily Envy