Baseball mourns the loss of Davey Johnson, the legendary MLB player and manager, who passed away Friday at a hospital in Sarasota, Florida, the New York Mets confirmed.
Longtime Mets employee Jay Horwitz shared the news on X (formerly Twitter), noting that Johnson’s wife, Susan, had informed him of her husband’s passing. The cause of death has not been disclosed.
From Player to All-Star
Johnson’s professional baseball journey began in 1962 as a minor leaguer, and he quickly rose through the ranks. By 1965, the Baltimore Orioles called him up, where he became known as a tremendous fielder.
During his eight seasons with the Orioles, Johnson helped the team secure World Series titles in 1966 and 1970, earned three All-Star selections, and racked up three Gold Gloves for his defensive prowess.
Before the 1973 season, Johnson was traded to the Atlanta Braves, where he earned yet another All-Star nod. He later played for the Philadelphia Phillies, Chicago Cubs, and even spent two seasons in Japan with the Yomiuri Giants, showcasing his talent internationally.
Legendary Mets Manager
While Johnson’s playing career was impressive, his managing legacy is what most baseball fans remember. He took the helm of the New York Mets in 1984, guiding stars like Keith Hernandez, Dwight “Doc” Gooden, and Darryl Strawberry to the franchise’s second World Series title in 1986—a team that remains iconic in Mets history.
Johnson was let go during the 1990 season, but his managerial career continued with stops at the Baltimore Orioles, Cincinnati Reds, Los Angeles Dodgers, and, after a decade coaching internationally, the Washington Nationals.
He was a two-time Manager of the Year, winning with the Orioles in 1997 and the Nationals in 2012, finishing his MLB managerial career with a 1,372–1,071 record.
Hall of Fame Honors
Johnson’s impact on the game is immortalized through his induction into both the Orioles Hall of Fame and the Mets Hall of Fame, celebrating his dual legacy as a player and manager.
His leadership, skill, and dedication to baseball left a lasting mark, inspiring countless players and fans alike.
Remembering a Baseball Legend
Davey Johnson, 82, will be remembered not only for his stats and accolades but for the leadership and charisma that defined his career. From thrilling World Series victories to shaping some of baseball’s brightest talents, Johnson’s name will forever resonate in MLB history.
How will you remember Davey Johnson? Share your favorite memories or moments from his iconic Mets career in the comments below.