Ed Kranepool, Original Met and World Series Champion, Dies at 79

Ed Kranepool, the longest-tenured player in New York Mets history and a member of the franchise's iconic 1969 World Series championship team, passed away on Sunday at the age of 79.

Legendary New York Mets first baseman Ed Kranepool, who played all 18 years of his MLB career with the team, has passed away at the age of 79. The Mets announced on Monday that Kranepool died following a cardiac arrest in Boca Raton, Florida, on Sunday.

Kranepool, known affectionately as "Steady Eddie," was an original member of the Mets, joining the team as a 17-year-old in 1962, the year of their inception. He played for 18 consecutive seasons in Queens, making him the longest-tenured player in franchise history.

Ed Kranepool, Original Met and World Series Champion, Dies at 79

During his illustrious career, Kranepool appeared in 1,853 games, the ninth-most in Mets history. He was a reliable and consistent presence at first base, known for his fielding prowess and clutch hitting.

In 1965, Kranepool made his lone All-Star appearance, hitting .253 with 10 homers and 53 RBIs. He played a key role in the Mets' improbable 1969 World Series victory, hitting a home run in Game 3 against the Baltimore Orioles.

Ed Kranepool, Original Met and World Series Champion, Dies at 79

After retiring from playing, Kranepool remained actively involved with the Mets organization. He served as a coach and scout, and was inducted into the Mets Hall of Fame in 1990. He was a regular presence at Old Timers' Day celebrations at Citi Field.

Kranepool faced significant health challenges in later years, including diabetes and kidney failure. However, he persevered through adversity with his trademark resilience. In 2019, he underwent a successful kidney transplant.

Ed Kranepool, Original Met and World Series Champion, Dies at 79

Mets owners Steve and Alex Cohen remembered Kranepool as "an original Met" who played a pivotal role in the team's early years. "We are incredibly heartbroken to learn of his passing," they said in a statement.

Kranepool's former teammates and colleagues paid tribute to his character and contributions to the Mets. Cleon Jones, a fellow original Met, described Kranepool as "one of the guys" who never had an ego.

"He was a wonderful person and even better teammate," said Ron Swoboda, another former Met. "We went into the restaurant business together. I can't believe he is gone."

Kranepool's legacy as a New York Met will endure forever. He was an integral part of the team's history, a beloved figure who played with pride and dedication for his hometown team. His passing is a profound loss for the Mets and the baseball community.