Major League Baseball was handed a tough loss recently as Hall of Famer Tom Seaver passed away recently. Seaver, who when he pitched for the New York Mets brought a determination and confidence to the mound with him, and that exact attitude helped the man known as ‘Tom Terrific’ to become one of the greatest Mets of all-time.
“We are devastated to learn of the passing of Mets Legend and Baseball Hall of Famer Tom Seaver. Tom was nicknamed “The Franchise” and “Tom Terrific” because of how valuable he truly was to our organization and our loyal fans, as his #41 was the first player number retired by the organization in 1988. He was simply the greatest Mets player of all-time and among the best to ever play the game which culminated with his near unanimous induction into the National Baseball Hall of Fame in 1992,” said Fred and Jeff Wilpon. “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 pitched in the Major Leagues for 20 seasons, winning 311 games and recording a 2.86 ERA. A 12-time All-Star (10 times from 1967-77), he struck out 3,640 batters, which currently ranks sixth all-time but was third, behind only Nolan Ryan and Steve Carlton, at the time of his retirement in 1986. Seaver led the National League in strikeouts five times from 1970-76, and he and Christy Mathewson are the only pitchers to record 300 wins, 3,000 strikeouts and an ERA below 3.00. Seaver’s 16 Opening Day starts is a Major League record.
“The Franchise’ was able to help lead New York, to their miracle 1969 championship, won 20 or more games for them four times, won three National League Cy Young Awards, three NL ERA titles and the 1967 NL Rookie of the Year Award, all while with the Mets. His uniform No. 41 was retired in 1988, the first such honor given to a Mets player. In addition to helping the New York franchise, Seaver also had a successful career with the Cincinnati Reds, Chicago Whie Sox and the Boston Red Sox.
Seaver’s career lasted long after he pitched, as his legacy goes far beyond the impact he made on the field. After his time playing Tom had a successful career as a broadcaster and volunteered countless hours representing the Mets in their community related efforts leaving a positive impact in the community.
The thoughts and prayers of everyone go out to his wife, Nancy, daughters Sarah and Anne and four grandsons, Thomas, William, Henry and Tobin.