Ed Kranepool, a renowned baseball icon and a stalwart of the New York Mets Hall of Fame, has died at 79 due to a cardiac arrest in Florida, his demise occurring on Sunday, with the announcement following from the New York Mets on Monday.
Joining the Mets as a striking young talent, Kranepool made his major league debut at the tender age of 17 in 1962. A product of James Monroe High School in the Bronx, he played his entire professional career with the Mets, spanning 18 years and making him the player with the longest stint in the team’s history. With a total of 1,853 game appearances, Kranepool left a lasting impression on the franchise.
Owners Steve and Alex Cohen of the New York Mets shared their condolences and the significance of Kranepool’s lifelong commitment to the team. They highlighted his remarkable journey from a high school star in the Bronx to a prominent figure in Mets history.
Kranepool played an instrumental role in the ’69 Miracle Mets, contributing to their historic World Series win – the first in the team’s history. His outstanding achievements secured him a place in the Mets Hall of Fame in 1990.
Art Shamsky, Kranepool’s teammate and close friend, mourned his loss, recounting his long-standing relationship with Kranepool and their recent interactions, indicating the shock and depth of his grief. Jerry Koosman, another team member, extolled Kranepool’s defensive skills, recalling their intuitive gameplay that helped prevent numerous steals.
Over his extensive career, Kranepool built an impressive record, achieving a .261 batting average, hitting 118 home runs, and tallying up 614 RBIs. But beyond the statistics, his iconic status and influence endure within Mets folklore.
The Mets organization has expressed its condolences to Kranepool’s family, recognizing the depth of their loss and the legacy left behind by a much-admired player in the baseball community. His memory is sure to resonate and inspire both current and future players and supporters of the Mets. Ed Kranepool’s legacy remains etched in baseball history as a symbol of dedication and skill. Rest in Peace, Ed Kranepool.
