We are incredibly saddened to hear about the passing of Jerry Grote, a statement from Mets owners Steve and Alex Cohen read. The Mets Hall of Famer was the backbone of a young Mets team who captured the heart of New York City in 1969.
He was the best defensive catcher in the NL when he played, his former teammate, Ed Kranepool, said. Johnny Bench once told me 'If he was on the Reds, I would be playing third base.'
As the starting catcher for the Miracle Mets in 1969, he not only guided New York pitchers through an imposing Baltimore Orioles lineup but also demonstrated his offensive capabilities in crucial games.
He was the reason for my success, Koosman, who recorded the final out of Game 5 with Grote behind the plate to win the team's first-ever title, said. I am heartbroken. No one was better behind the plate.
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