New York Mets World Series hero Jerry Koosman dead at 83 after lengthy battle with illness

Former New York Mets pitcher and World Series hero Jerry Koosman has died at the age of 83 following a long illness. The Mets announced his passing on Sunday, confirming that he died surrounded by family in Osceola, Wisconsin. Widely regarded as the franchise's greatest left-handed pitcher, Koosman spent 12 seasons in New York and became a legendary figure during his lengthy Major League Baseball career.

Koosman famously helped lead the "Miracle Mets" to the 1969 World Series title against the Baltimore Orioles, winning two games in the series, including a complete-game victory in Game Five. Following his retirement, which also included stints with the Chicago White Sox and Philadelphia Phillies, he briefly coached in the minor leagues. Tributes poured in from Mets figures, including broadcaster Howie Rose and team historian Jay Horwitz.