Photo: Boston Globe
Bill Buckner passed away today at the age of 69. The longtime major leaguer played 22 seasons in the league, and he holds a significant place in Mets’ history as the player who let Mookie Wilson’s groundball get through his legs in game six of the 1986 World Series.
Buckner’s family released this statement to the media:
“After battling the disease of Lewy Body Dementia, Bill Buckner passed away early the morning of May 27th surrounded by his family. Bill fought with courage and grit as he did all things in life. Our hearts are broken but we are at peace knowing he is in the arms of his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.” (Jeremey Schaap, ESPN.com)
During his long career, Buckner batted .289/.321/.408 with 174 homeruns and 1208 RBI while playing for the Dodgers, Cubs, Red Sox, Royals, and Angels.
