While I personally never got to see Buddy Harrelson play, as a fan that loves to research history and lore, Harrelson’s name definitely rings bells. He will forever be remembered as a legend to this Orange & Blue fan base, R.I.P.

Buddy Harrelson, the former shortstop of the New York Mets, is a legendary figure in the team’s history. Known for his exceptional fielding skills and unwavering determination, Harrelson played a pivotal role in the Mets’ success during the late 1960s and early 1970s.

This article dives into the life and career of Buddy Harrelson, highlighting his contributions to the Mets and his lasting impact on the game of baseball.

Born as Derrel McKinley Harrelson on June 6, 1944, in Nacogdoches, Texas, Harrelson’s passion for baseball was evident from a young age. He excelled as a high school player, catching the attention of professional scouts.

In 1963, Harrelson signed with the New York Mets organization and began his journey toward becoming one of the most beloved players in franchise history.

Harrelson made his major league debut with the Mets in 1965. His defensive prowess quickly became apparent, earning him a reputation as one of the best defensive shortstops of his era.

Harrelson’s agility, quick reflexes, and exceptional range allowed him to make difficult plays look effortless. He became a key component of the Mets’ talented infield, alongside players like Ed Kranepool, Cleon Jones, and Jerry Grote.

Harrelson’s impact extended beyond his defensive abilities. Known for his fiery personality and competitive spirit, he became a fan favorite and a leader in the Mets’ clubhouse.

Harrelson’s intensity and determination served as an inspiration to his teammates, and he played a crucial role in fostering a winning culture within the organization.

The pinnacle of Harrelson’s career came in 1969 when the Mets shocked the baseball world by winning their first-ever World Series championship. Harrelson’s exceptional play on both sides of the field was instrumental in the team’s success.

His defensive contributions were invaluable, and his ability to turn double plays with precision helped solidify the Mets’ infield defense.

Offensively, Harrelson played an essential role as a spark plug at the top of the lineup. His ability to get on base, steal bases, and score runs provided an added dimension to the Mets’ offensive attack.

While he had virtually no pop with the stick (1 HR), he was able to get on base with a .341 OBP during the championship year of 1969. He got better as he went on, earning two visits to the All-Star games (‘70, ‘71) in the 70’s.

Harrelson’s infectious energy and leadership were crucial factors in the team’s Cinderella season, and he became a symbol of the Mets’ resilience and determination.

After retiring as a player, Harrelson remained connected to the game as a coach and manager. He served as a coach for the Mets and later managed the team’s minor league affiliates.

Harrelson continued to share his knowledge and passion for the game with younger players, leaving a lasting impact on the development of future generations of Mets players.

Off the field, Harrelson’s impact extended to charitable endeavors. In 1985, he co-founded the Buddy Harrelson Foundation, which supports research and programs dedicated to finding a cure for Alzheimer’s disease, a cause close to his heart.

Buddy Harrelson’s contributions to the New York Mets extend far beyond his exceptional skills on the field. He was the heart and soul of the Mets during a transformative period in the team’s history.

Harrelson’s defensive brilliance, leadership, and unwavering determination made him an integral part of the Mets’ success, including their memorable 1969 World Series triumph.

His impact on the organization and the game of baseball as a whole is undeniable, solidifying his place as one of the all-time greats in Mets history.