Legendary MLB pitcher Tom Seaver, a Hall-of-Famer who led the New York Mets to their unlikely 1969 World Series championship, has died at the age of 75 after a long illness. The Baseball Hall of Fame said in statement on Wednesday that Seaver died in his sleep on Monday from complications of Lewy body dementia and COVID-19. Lewy body dementia is a degenerative neurological disease similar to Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s.
Seaver’s wife, Nancy, and daughters Sarah and Anne said in a joint statement: “We are heartbroken to share that our beloved husband and father has passed away. We send our love out to his fans, as we mourn his loss with you.”
Mets owner Fred Wilpon and his son Jeff, a top executive with the team, said in a statement on the New York Mets Twitter page: “Tom was nicknamed ‘The Franchise’ and ‘Tom Terrific’ because of how valuable he truly was to our organization and our loyal fans. Beyond the multitude of awards, records, accolades, World Series championship, all-star appearances and just overall brilliance, we will always remember Tom for his passion and devotion to his family, the game of baseball and his vineyard.”
Seaver, who won 311 games during his long career, is considered one of the greatest right-hand pitchers in baseball history. He spent many years in broadcasting after retiring as a player, and also opened a winery in his native California. He was inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame in 1992.
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