Jerry Koosman, World Series Champion Pitcher for 1969 Mets, Dies at 83
Jerry Koosman, an All-Star left-hander who recorded the final out in the 1969 Miracle Mets' World Series win, has died at the age of 83. He passed away Sunday in Osceola, Wisconsin.
Evansville, IN, November 2, 2026 —
Jerry Koosman, a decorated left-handed pitcher celebrated for his pivotal role in the New York Mets’ improbable 1969 World Series championship, has died. He was 83 years old.
Koosman passed away on Sunday in Osceola, Wisconsin. His career spanned 19 seasons in Major League Baseball, where he established himself as a durable and effective starter.
He is perhaps most remembered for pitching the final out of Game 5 of the 1969 World Series, securing the championship for the “Miracle Mets” against the heavily favored Baltimore Orioles. Koosman was a key member of that historic team, known for its underdog spirit and dramatic victories.
Throughout his career, Koosman was a four-time All-Star selection. He played for the New York Mets from 1968 to 1978, before being traded to the Minnesota Twins. He also played for the Chicago White Sox and the Philadelphia Phillies, retiring after the 1985 season.
Beyond his World Series heroics, Koosman was recognized for his consistency. He won 20 games in 1976 and led the National League in shutouts in 1973. His career statistics include 222 wins, 185 losses, and an earned run average of 3.36 across 4,285 innings pitched. He recorded 2,556 strikeouts.
Koosman’s passing marks the end of an era for Mets fans and baseball historians, who recall his powerful left arm and his place in one of baseball’s most beloved championship stories.
Story summarized from the original created by Associated Press on www.tristatehomepage.com, see more information here.
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