Bud Harrelson, Mets shortstop, Pete Rose, dies 79

Bud Harrelson, the New York Mets shortstop who fought Pete Rose, died. He battled Alzheimer's and was a Long Island Ducks co-owner.

New York (AP) - Bud Harrelson, the tenacious and reliable shortstop who famously tussled with Pete Rose during a playoff game and played a crucial role in the New York Mets' remarkable championship victory, passed away early Thursday morning at the age of 79.

The Mets announced Harrelson's passing, stating that he died at a hospice house in East Northport, New York after a prolonged battle with Alzheimer's. Diagnosed in 2016, Harrelson openly shared his journey two years later, hoping to raise awareness and support for others affected by the disease.

Despite his health challenges, Harrelson remained active and involved in his greatest baseball achievement - the Long Island Ducks, an independent minor league team that he helped establish and manage. His family is planning a celebration of his life for a later date.

Over his 15-year major league career from 1965-1980, Harrelson, affectionately known as Buddy, was a two-time All-Star and recipient of a Gold Glove. He spent the first 13 seasons of his career with the Mets and was a key member of both of the team's World Series victories.

In one of the most iconic moments in baseball history, Harrelson jubilantly waved home the winning run in Game 6 of the 1986 World Series, securing the championship for the Mets.

Harrelson also managed the Mets for nearly two seasons, leading them to a second-place NL East finish in 1990. He was inducted into the team's Hall of Fame in 1986, joining Rusty Staub as the first two players honored.

The legendary scuffle with Pete Rose during the 1973 NL Championship Series remains one of the most memorable incidents in baseball history. Harrelson, known for his tenacity, stood his ground against Rose, despite being outweighed by over 30 pounds, sparking a wild bench-clearing brawl.

Throughout his career, Harrelson was known for his resilience and grit, and his impact on the game extended well beyond his playing days. After his diagnosis with Alzheimer's, he became an advocate for the Alzheimer's Association Long Island, working with his family to raise awareness and support for those affected by the disease.

Despite his health challenges, Harrelson's legacy lives on, and his impact on the game of baseball will be remembered for generations to come. He is survived by his former wife, Kim Battaglia, five children, ten grandchildren, and three great-grandchildren.