Renowned New York Mets manager Davey Johnson, who guided the team to victory in the 1986 World Series, passes away at the age of 82.

Davey Johnson, a renowned figure in Major League Baseball as both a player and manager, passed away on Friday at the age of 82. Born on January 30, 1943, in Orlando, Florida, Johnson's career spanned over five decades, leaving an indelible mark on the sport.

Johnson's journey in baseball began at Texas A&M University, where he played shortstop under coach Tom Chandler. After two years, he signed with the Baltimore Orioles, marking the start of his professional career.

Johnson's playing career was highlighted by four World Series appearances with the Orioles, winning championships in 1966 and 1970. His best season came in 1970, where he batted .282 with 18 home runs and 72 RBIs.

Johnson's major league debut was with the Orioles in 1965 as a backup infielder. However, a poor performance led to his demotion to the minors. He was given another chance in 1969, when he was brought back to the team and made the final out as the Mets won their first world championship. The following season, Johnson was given the second-base job with the Orioles, and the team went on to win the World Series once again, with Johnson getting the final hit off Sandy Koufax in Game 3.

Johnson's managerial career began in 1984 when he was tapped to manage the New York Mets' Triple-A affiliate in Tidewater, VA. His tenure with the Mets, from 1984-1990, was marked by unprecedented success. Johnson's Mets won 90 or more games in each of his first five seasons as manager, a record in major league history. The 1984 Mets, under Johnson's management, won 90 games, with the help of 19-year-old Dwight Gooden and 22-year-old Darryl Strawberry.

Johnson's Mets also won 100 games or more in 1986 and 1988, but only reached the postseason twice. Despite the underachievement, Johnson's teams were known for their aggressive and exciting style of play.

Johnson managed several other teams after his tenure with the Mets, including the Cincinnati Reds, Baltimore Orioles, Los Angeles Dodgers, and Washington Nationals. He won the Manager of the Year Award for the second time in 2012 with the Nationals.

Despite his many accomplishments, Johnson's teams were often viewed as underachievers, and he was fired after an 87-win season in 1989 and a 20-22 start in 1990.

Johnson's father, Frederick, was a highly decorated World War II tank commander who rose to the rank of lieutenant colonel. Johnson lived on Army bases in Germany, Georgia, Texas, and Wyoming as the child of an Army officer.

Johnson's career in baseball was not without its highs and lows, but his impact on the game is undeniable. His aggressive style of play, combined with his ability to develop young talent, made him a beloved figure in the sport. Johnson played in the majors until 1977, also playing for the Phillies and Cubs, and finished his career with a lifetime batting average of .261.

Johnson's passing leaves a void in the baseball community, but his legacy will live on as one of the most successful managers in Major League Baseball history.

Renowned New York Mets manager Davey Johnson, who guided the team to victory in the 1986 World Series, passes away at the age of 82.