Ron Taylor, a two-time World Series champion and standout member of the “Miracle Mets,” has passed away at the age of 87, the New York Mets announced on Monday.
Taylor, who later became the longtime team doctor for the Toronto Blue Jays, earned World Series rings with both the New York Mets and the St. Louis Cardinals during his 11-year MLB career. His first championship came with the Cardinals in 1964.
In the Mets’ legendary 1969 season, Taylor was a key contributor, appearing in 59 games and recording 13 saves, while compiling a 9-4 record with a 2.72 ERA.
“Ron was the only guy on our staff with postseason experience,” said former teammate Art Shamsky, as quoted in the Mets’ statement. “He had won a championship with the Cardinals in 1964 and brought a winning mentality. We don’t win the title without Ron Taylor.”
Over the course of his career, Taylor also played for the Cleveland Indians, Houston Astros, and San Diego Padres, in addition to his time with the Cardinals and Mets.
The Mets stated that Taylor passed away after a prolonged illness.
Following his retirement from baseball, Taylor served as the Blue Jays’ team doctor for over 30 years and was later inducted into the Canadian Baseball Hall of Fame.
