I just saw on the New York Times front page that former Expos, Mets and Dodgers catcher Gary Carter has just died of brain cancer. I had no idea that he was even sick so this comes as a total shock and surprise. He was only 57. Way way way too young.
Carter was a key member of the great 1986 Mets team that barreled over the National League Eastern Division and won the pennant against the Houston Astros and then World Series over the Boston Red Sox. I fondly remember following nearly every game that season on TV or radio, and attending a number of games in person including the season opener and closer.
The 1986 World Series was of course the one in which Red Sox first baseman Bill Buckner famously misplayed a slow grounder by Mookie Wilson in game six, allowing the Mets to come back from sure defeat and world series elimination and win the game, setting up a game seven win. Carter was the player who began the rally that led to this incredible comeback, with a 2-out single in the bottom of the 10th with the Mets down 5-3.
Carter was not only a great catcher and player, but a great person, always upbeat and optimistic, even when things were down. He will obviously be missed, by his family, friends, fans, and baseball. Condolences to all, and rest in peace, Gary.