Jerry Grote, 81, a former catcher for the Mets, passed away on Sunday from respiratory failure after a cardiac operation, according to his wife Cheryl.
In 1969, Grote started at catcher for the Mets as they won their first World Series. In addition to spending 12 years with the team, he was the 1973 National League pennant winner. During his 16-year MLB career, he played for Houston, Kansas City, and the Dodgers until being traded to them in 1977.
“The news of Jerry Grote’s passing saddens us greatly,” the Mets released a statement. “The youthful Mets club that won the heart of New York City in 1969 had the Hall of Famer as its foundation.
He spent 12 seasons in Flushing and was a two-time All-Star, earning him the title the best defensive catcher in franchise history. Jerry’s final meeting with his teammates at the 1969 World Series reunion at Citi Field in 2019 was greatly appreciated. His wife, Cheryl, as well as her family and friends, are in our thoughts and prayers.
During his tenure with the Mets, Grote caught for Tug McGraw, Nolan Ryan, Tom Seaver, and Jerry Koosman. He now leads the team in games played at catcher for the team.
