Left-handed pitcher who won 222 games over 19 seasons, including a championship with the 1969 New York Mets. He's a four-time All-Star and two-time Gold Glove winner.
Jerry Koosman is best known for being a member of the 1969 Miracle Mets, the team that defied all odds to win the World Series. As a left-handed pitcher, Koosman played a crucial role in the Mets' historic victory, earning himself a place in baseball lore.
Koosman was born on December 23, 1942, in Appleton, Minnesota. His journey to the MLB began when he was discovered by John Lucchese, the son of a Shea Stadium usher, while pitching in the United States Army at Fort Bliss, Texas. The Mets offered Koosman a contract after his discharge from the military, and he was on his way to becoming a professional baseball player.
In 1967, Koosman led all International League pitchers in strikeouts, earning him a spot in the Mets' rotation in 1968. He went on to post a 19-12 record with seven shutouts, 178 strikeouts, and a 2.08 ERA, setting franchise records and breaking those set by teammate Tom Seaver the year prior.
In 1969, Koosman continued his impressive performance, posting a 17-9 record with a 2.28 ERA and 180 strikeouts. He was a key member of the Mets team that won the National League East title and went on to defeat the Baltimore Orioles in the World Series.
Throughout his 19-year career, Koosman played for the New York Mets, Minnesota Twins, Chicago White Sox, and Philadelphia Phillies. He finished his career with a 222-209 record, 2,556 strikeouts, and a 3.36 ERA.
Koosman's contributions to the Miracle Mets' World Series victory have cemented his place in baseball history. He remains one of the most beloved players in Mets history, and his legacy continues to inspire new generations of baseball fans.
After retiring from baseball, Koosman went on to work as a minor league pitching coach and instructor. He has also been involved in various charitable initiatives, including working with the Baseball Assistance Team (B.A.T.), which provides assistance to former baseball players in need.
Today, Koosman lives in Wisconsin, where he remains involved in the baseball community and is often seen at Mets' alumni events and autograph signings. His inspiring story and contributions to the game of baseball continue to make him a beloved figure in the world of sports.
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A baseball legend who played in four World Series and managed the 1969 Miracle Mets to a championship, earning him a spot in the National Baseball Hall of Fame.
