TRIBUTES have poured in after the death of baseball legend Davey Johnson – who has died aged 82.
Johnson played for the Baltimore Orioles, Atlanta Braves, Yomiuri Giants, Philadelphia Phillies and Chicago Cubs throughout his career.
Tributes poured in after the death of baseball legend Davey Johnson[/caption]
He passed away aged 82[/caption]
He was a four-time All Star and three-time World Series winner – twice as a player and once as a manager.
Johnson managed the Mets, Cincinnati Reds, Baltimore Orioles, Los Angeles Dodgers and the Washington Nationals.
The MLB paid a touching tribute to the American legend after his passing.
“We are deeply saddened to learn of the passing of former Major League player and manager Davey Johnson,” it read.
“In 8 years with the Orioles from 1965-72, Johnson was a 3-time All-Star, won 3 Gold Glove Awards, and was part of four AL pennant winners and two World Series champions (1966 & 1970).
“He earned a 4th All-Star appearance with the Braves in 1973, the year he hit 43 home runs, which stood as the single-season record for a second baseman until 2021.
“After two seasons with Japan’s Yomiuri Giants, Johnson finished his playing career in 1978 with the Phillies and Cubs.
“Johnson managed the Mets from 1984-90 and led them to 5 consecutive 90-win seasons.
“The highlight of his Mets tenure was 1986, when the Mets won 108 games in the regular season and a World Series championship.
“The 7-game victory vs. the Red Sox is one of the most classic World Series in MLB history.
“Johnson would go on to manage the Reds (1993-95), Orioles (1996-97), Dodgers (1999-2000) and Nationals (2011-2013).
“He won four division titles, twice winning Manager of the Year honors – once in the AL with the Orioles (1997) and again in the NL with the Nationals (2012).
“His career managerial record was 1,372-1,071 – a .562 winning percentage. Johnson was 82 years old.”
“We are deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Davey Johnson,” the Mets said in a statement.
“Davey’s 595 wins remain the most in franchise history, and his legacy is highlighted by him leading the 1986 team to a World Series championship.
“He led with a quiet confidence and unwavering belief in his team, always caring deeply for his players both on and off the field.
“He had a distinguished 13-year playing career, including winning two World Series titles with the Orioles.
“On behalf of our entire organization, we extend our heartfelt condolences to Davey’s family, friends, and all who were impacted by his remarkable life and career.”
“The Phillies join the baseball community in mourning the loss of Davey Johnson, who played two seasons with the club from 1977-78,” another tribute read.
“We offer our condolences to his family and loved ones at this difficult time.”
“RIP to one of the best to ever do it,” one fan said.
