Famed Mets manager Davey Johnson breathes his last at 82 years of age

Davey Johnson: A Legendary Figure in Mets History

Davey Johnson, a legendary figure in the world of baseball, passed away at the age of 82. Johnson will forever be synonymous with the New York Mets, having managed the team during one of their most iconic seasons.

In 1984, Johnson took the helm of the Mets, and under his guidance, the team experienced a remarkable turnaround. The 1986 season was a testament to Johnson's leadership, as the Mets won an impressive 108 games, a feat that still stands as one of the highest win totals in the franchise's history.

Johnson was known for his innovative approach to the game, earning him the nickname "The Cobra". He was ahead of his time in using analytics, a strategy that proved to be a game-changer for the Mets.

One of Johnson's most significant achievements with the Mets was the development and nurturing of young talent. The duo of Darryl Strawberry and Dwight Gooden, two of the most promising players in the league, flourished under Johnson's guidance.

The Mets team that won the World Series in 1986 was a formidable one, with Gary Carter, Ray Knight, Strawberry, Gooden, and many others contributing to the team's success. The series against the Boston Red Sox was a thrilling one, with the Mets coming back from behind in Game 6, thanks to Mookie Wilson's ground ball that went through Bill Buckner's legs, allowing Ray Knight to score the winning run.

Johnson's tenure with the Mets ended bitterly in 1990 due to friction with General Manager Frank Cashen. However, his impact on the team and the sport as a whole cannot be overstated.

Post-Mets, Johnson continued to make his mark in the world of baseball. He managed the U.S. team at the 2008 Olympics in Beijing and the 2009 World Baseball Classic.

Johnson's direct communication style with his players was another hallmark of his management. He was survived by his wife Susan.

The Mets, and indeed the world of baseball, have lost a true legend. Johnson's legacy will live on, not just as a manager who led a team to victory, but as a pioneer who pushed the boundaries of the game.