N.Y. Mets pitching great, '69 Series hero Jerry Koosman dies at 86

Nov. 1 (UPI) -- Jerry Koosman, one of the greatest pitchers in the history of the New York Mets and a hero of their iconic 1969 World Series victory, has died at age 83, the team announced Sunday. Considered the best left-handed pitcher in Mets history, he is most fondly remembered as the winner of Game 2 of the historic series against Baltimore during which he held the Orioles hitless through six innings en route to a 2-1 win. The victory evened the series at one victory apiece and helped set the stage for the "Amazin' Mets" to pull off what was then the most improbable world championship in baseball history. "Kooz was one of the greatest pitchers in team history and a beloved member of the Mets family," team owners Steve and Alex Cohen said in a statement. "The 1969 Miracle Mets were filled with heroes, and the special southpaw from Appleton, Minnesota, was central to their success. "He was a fierce competitor on the field, and respected teammate in the clubhouse. His legendary performance in the World Series helped the Mets secure their first Championship in team history. "On behalf of the entire Mets organization, we extend our heartfelt condolences to Jerry's family, friends, former teammates and all who loved him." Koosman pitched 12 years of his 19-season career with New York from 1967-78, winning 140 games and posting a 3.09 ERA. He recorded a 21-win season in 1976 and still holds many team records for left-handed pitchers, including starts (346), complete games (108), shutouts (26, tied with Jon Matlack), wins (140), decisions (277), innings (2,544 2/3) and strikeouts (1,799), according to MLB.com . He teamed up with Tom Seaver starting in 1968 to give the Mets a powerful 1-2 punch atop their rotation -- a tandem which lasted until Seaver was traded to the Cincinnati Reds in June 1977. Koosman (No. 36), Seaver (No. 41) and catcher Mike Piazza (No. 31) are the only three Mets players to have their numbers retired from the team.