RIP - Bud Harrelson

 

Bud Harrelson, the Mets' shortstop for 12 seasons from 1966-77, passed away on January 10, 2024 at age 79.

After a cup of coffee in September 1965, Harrelson rejoined the Mets in August 1966, and by September had taken over the shortstop job from the Roy McMillan/Ed Bressoud tandem. The Mets were so confident in his abilities that they released McMillan after the season, and traded Bressoud the following March. 

 

Harrelson started 144 games in 1967, more than any other Met except Tommy Davis. 

 

He made the All-Star team twice, and played in 2 World Series. 

 

After the 1977 season he was traded to the Phillies, where he backed up Larry Bowa and a variety of 2nd basemen for 2 seasons.

 

He played for the Rangers in his final season (1980). 

 

Harrelson's 1968 card is shown above. During my pack-purchasing days of 1967-72, I had more of this card (nine) than any other card. 

 

Associated Press obituary  

 

New York Post obituary