Former Mets catcher Jerry Grote passed away at the age of 81 due to respiratory failure after a heart procedure, as announced by his wife Cheryl on Facebook. In her statement, she expressed sorrow over the loss and thanked everyone for their support. The Mets also confirmed Grote’s passing at the Texas Cardiac Arrhythmia Institute in Austin, Texas, where he was receiving treatment.
Jerry Grote had a successful career with the Mets, spending over a decade with the team before being traded to the Dodgers in 1977. He was a key member of the 1969 world championship team and the 1973 club, two of the most beloved squads in Mets history. Grote made two All-Star appearances in 1968 and 1974, and he holds the record for the most games played at catcher in Mets franchise history.
The Mets owners, Steve and Alex Cohen, expressed their sadness over Grote’s passing and highlighted his contributions to the team. They described him as the backbone of the 1969 Mets team that captured the hearts of New York City. They offered their thoughts and prayers to Grote’s wife Cheryl, family, and friends during this difficult time.
Jerry Grote’s death is a loss for the Mets organization and the baseball community as a whole. He was a respected and beloved figure whose impact on the team and the sport will not be forgotten. His legacy includes his role in the success of the Mets in the late 1960s and early 1970s, as well as his record-setting performances as a catcher for the franchise.
Grote’s passing is a reminder of the lasting impact that players like him can have on a team and its fans. His contributions to the Mets will always be remembered, and his memory will live on in the hearts of those he touched. As the Mets and their fans mourn the loss of a baseball legend, they will celebrate his life and the legacy he leaves behind.
Jerry Grote’s death marks the end of an era for the Mets and serves as a reminder of the team’s rich history. As fans and players alike mourn his passing, they will also honor his memory and the impact he had on the franchise. Jerry Grote will always be remembered as a Mets legend and a beloved figure in the world of baseball.
