Remembering Davey Johnson: A Mets Legend Who Led Them to Glory

The baseball world, particularly the fervent fanbase of the New York Mets, is in mourning following the passing of Davey Johnson. The last manager to lead the franchise to a World Series title, Johnson died at the age of 82, leaving behind an indelible legacy as both a player and a skipper. His death marks the end of an era for many who remember the glory days of the 1986 Mets.

A Champion’s Farewell

Jay Horwitz, a longtime friend of Johnson and the Mets’ former public relations representative, shared the sad news on X (formerly Twitter) on Saturday. “I am glad I was able to say goodbye in person last February. Susan, the wife of Davey Johnson, told me that my dear friend and manager of our 1986 World Series champion team has passed away at the age of 82,” Horwitz wrote, capturing the sentiment of a community grieving a beloved figure.

Johnson’s career was marked by consistent excellence. As a player, he was a four-time All-Star, a three-time Gold Glove winner, and a key contributor for the Baltimore Orioles, Braves, Phillies, and Cubs. Over 13 seasons, he amassed 1,252 hits, 609 RBIs, 136 home runs, and a .744 lifetime OPS, all while maintaining a stellar .981 fielding average.

The Architect of the ’86 Mets

After retiring as a player in 1978, Johnson quickly transitioned to management, taking the helm of the New York Mets in 1984. It was a move that would redefine the franchise. In six full seasons with the Mets (1984-1989), Johnson never had a losing record. His pinnacle came in 1986, when he led the team to an astounding 108 wins and a memorable World Series triumph over the Boston Red Sox.

In 1988, Johnson again guided the Mets to a 100-win season, only to fall short in the National League Championship Series against the formidable Los Angeles Dodgers, led by Tom Lasorda, Orel Hershiser, and Kirk Gibson. Johnson’s managerial record with the Mets stands at an impressive 595 wins and 417 losses, a .588 winning percentage – the best in franchise history.

Darryl Strawberry, one of the Mets’ most iconic players under Johnson, expressed his deep sorrow. “I deeply mourn the loss of an extraordinary leader who transformed the Mets franchise into a winning organization. His ability to empower players to express themselves while maintaining a firm commitment to excellence was truly inspiring,” Strawberry shared on Instagram. “His legacy will forever be etched in the hearts of fans and players. My deepest condolences to Susan Johnson and the entire Johnson family at this difficult time. We will miss him, but we will remember him for his incredible impact on the sport and the lives he touched.”

A Managerial Journey Beyond Queens

Johnson’s impact extended far beyond the Mets. He managed five other MLB teams, achieving a winning record with each:

• Cincinnati Reds: 204 wins-172 losses (three seasons)
• Baltimore Orioles: 186-138 (two seasons)
• Los Angeles Dodgers: 163-161 (two seasons)
• Washington Nationals: 224-183 (three seasons)

Rare Achievement: Champion as Player and Manager

One of Johnson’s most distinguished accomplishments was winning the World Series as both a player and a manager. As an infielder for the Baltimore Orioles, he was part of the championship teams in 1966 and 1970. Then, in 1986, he guided the Mets to their second – and to date, last – World Series title. This rare feat places him among an elite group in baseball history:

• Alex Cora
• Alvin Dark
• Billy Martin
• Billy Southworth
• Bob Lemon
• Casey Stengel
• Dave Roberts
• Davey Johnson
• Dusty Baker
• Gil Hodges
• Hank Bauer
• Joe Girardi
• Leo Durocher
• Lou Piniella
• Mike Scioscia
• Pat Moran
• Ralph Houk
• Red Schoendienst
• Steve O’Neill

Davey Johnson’s passing is a profound loss for baseball. His leadership, strategic brilliance, and ability to connect with players created a legacy that will be cherished and remembered for generations, particularly by those who witnessed the magic of the 1986 New York Mets.