Jerry Grote, a two-time All-Star catcher who won a World Series with the New York Mets, passed away at the age of 81 at a hospital in Texas. He was a crucial part of the Miracle Mets that shocked Major League Baseball by sweeping the Atlanta Braves in the National League Championship Series and then defeating the Baltimore Orioles in the 1969 World Series. Mets spokesman Jay Horwitz shared that Grote had heart issues and passed away at the Texas Cardiac Arrhythmia Institute at St. David’s Medical Center in Austin during a procedure due to respiratory failure. Mets owner Steve Cohen and his wife Alex expressed their sadness over Grote’s passing, highlighting his contributions to the team and the city of New York.
Grote, known as the best defensive catcher in Mets history, was a two-time All-Star who spent 12 seasons in Flushing. He played initially for the Houston Colt .45s before being traded to the Mets in 1965, where he spent more than 11 years before moving on to the Los Angeles Dodgers. His final season in the majors was in 1981, playing for the Dodgers and the Kansas City Royals. Former teammates of Grote, such as Jerry Koosman and Ed Kranepool, praised his skills and leadership on the field. Koosman credits Grote for his success and shared a poignant memory of celebrating their victory in 1969, while Kranepool recounted Johnny Bench’s acknowledgment of Grote’s defensive prowess.
Over the course of his 16-year career in the majors, Grote maintained a .252 batting average. He was a beloved figure in baseball, with his impact transcending statistics to influence the success of his team and the game as a whole. The passing of Jerry Grote was mourned by the baseball community, with tributes pouring in from former colleagues, fans, and the Mets organization. His legacy as a talented and dedicated player, particularly as a defensive powerhouse, will be remembered and cherished by those who had the privilege of watching him play. Grote will forever hold a special place in the hearts of Mets fans, who saw him help lead the team to their historic 1969 World Series victory.
The Mets community expressed their deep condolences for the loss of Jerry Grote, acknowledging his pivotal role in the team’s success and his lasting impact on the sport. Grote’s contributions to the Miracle Mets of 1969 and his reputation as one of the best defensive catchers in the history of the franchise solidify his place as a Mets legend. His presence on the field, leadership in the locker room, and dedication to his craft earned him respect and admiration from teammates, opponents, and fans alike. As a key member of the Mets during a transformative era for the franchise, Jerry Grote will be fondly remembered for his talent, professionalism, and unwavering commitment to the game he loved.
In his retirement, Jerry Grote remained connected to the baseball community, attending events and reunions to celebrate the accomplishments of his team and relive the magic of the 1969 season. His impact extended beyond his playing career, as his influence continued to inspire and motivate those around him. Grote’s legacy as a defensive standout, a World Series champion, and a beloved member of the Mets family will endure in the hearts of those who knew him and in the annals of baseball history. The passing of Jerry Grote marks the end of an era for the Mets and the broader baseball community, as they mourn the loss of a true icon and celebrate the lasting legacy he leaves behind.
