1969 Miracle Mets Pitcher Remembered After Passing at 87

Ron Taylor, a celebrated relief pitcher for the legendary 1969 “Miracle Mets,” has died at 87 after battling a serious illness. His journey—spanning multiple Major League Baseball teams, a pivotal postseason, and a second act as a respected physician—left a real mark on both baseball and medicine.

Let’s take a closer look at Taylor’s life, achievements, and what he meant to sports history. There’s a lot to unpack here.

Ron Taylor: From Toronto Beginnings to MLB Stardom

Born in Toronto, Canada, in 1937, Ron Taylor grew up probably never imagining his future would include both baseball and medicine. He broke into Major League Baseball in 1962, kicking off an 11-season career that took him to five teams: the Cleveland Indians (now Guardians), St. Louis Cardinals, Houston Astros, San Diego Padres, and the New York Mets.

Taylor built a reputation for his consistency and dependability. He had a real knack for handling high-pressure moments on the mound, which isn’t something you can teach.

Career Numbers That Speak Volumes

Taylor’s MLB stats tell their own story. Over 11 seasons, he put together a 45-43 record, a 3.93 ERA, 464 strikeouts, and 47 saves.

He was a reliable relief pitcher who delivered clutch performances when it mattered most. Some milestones really defined his career, beyond the numbers.

The Miracle Mets: Taylor’s Defining Moment

The 1969 season will always stand out in baseball history, and Taylor was right in the thick of it. That year, he posted a 2.72 ERA across 59 appearances and notched 13 saves, becoming an essential piece of the Mets’ bullpen.

His biggest contribution came during the World Series against the powerhouse Baltimore Orioles. That’s the stuff people still talk about.

Game 2 of the World Series: Taylor’s Heroics

One of Taylor’s most memorable moments happened in Game 2 of the 1969 World Series. He secured a critical save for the Mets, staying cool under pressure.

That poise helped the team win the series in five games, wrapping up one of baseball’s great underdog stories. The “Miracle Mets” made sure Taylor’s name would always be part of New York sports lore.

A Second Act: From Baseball Stadiums to Medical Clinics

After retiring, Taylor didn’t just fade away—he pulled off a career pivot most athletes only dream about. He turned to academia and attended medical school at the University of Toronto.

By 1977, he’d swapped his jersey for a lab coat and earned his medical degree. Not exactly a common path for a former MLB pitcher.

Royal Canadian Air Force and Toronto Blue Jays Team Physician

Taylor kept pushing forward. He served in the Royal Canadian Air Force, showing his drive for public service.

In 1979, he became the Toronto Blue Jays’ team physician, holding that job for over 30 years. His medical expertise played a big part in the team’s health and performance during their back-to-back World Series wins in 1992 and 1993.

Honors and Legacy: A Career Worth Celebrating

Ron Taylor’s impact on baseball and medicine didn’t go unnoticed. In 1985, he was inducted into the Canadian Baseball Hall of Fame, a fitting tribute to his achievements on and off the field.

He stands out as a trailblazer who influenced generations of athletes—and honestly, that’s not something you see every day.

Final Reflections on Taylor’s Life

From clutch performances with the Mets to saving lives in medical clinics, Ron Taylor’s story really stands out. He managed to thrive in two ultra-competitive fields—sports and medicine. That’s rare, and honestly, it deserves more than just a passing mention.

Key Takeaways:

• Ron Taylor pitched relief for 11 MLB seasons, played for five teams, and put up some impressive stats.
• He played a huge role in the Miracle Mets’ 1969 World Series win, especially with his save in Game 2—a moment that still sticks in baseball history.
• Taylor later became a physician and served as the Toronto Blue Jays’ team doctor for over thirty years.
• His legacy includes his 1985 induction into the Canadian Baseball Hall of Fame, among other honors.

Taylor’s journey shows how determination and adaptability can open doors in unexpected places. It’s the kind of story that makes you wonder what else is possible, right?

 
Here is the source article for this story: Key 1969 ‘Miracle Mets’ pitcher passes away at 87