New York Mets 4-Time All-Star John Stearns Dead At 71

John “Bad Dude” Stearns — a cherished New York Mets catcher and four-time All-Star — has actually unfortunately passed away at 71 years of ages.

Former Mets officer Randye Ringler revealed the news on his social networks page … stating Stearns — who bet NY from 1975 to 1984 — died on Thursday.

“May he be setting up to catch Tom Seaver in Baseball Heaven and Resting in Peace,” Ringler stated. “He left us all with so many wonderful memories.”

A cause of death was not exposed … however Stearns had actually been fighting prostate cancer.

“No one played the game with more spirit or determination than John Stearns,” Mets president Sandy Alderson stated Friday early morning. “He literally willed himself to attend Old Timers’ Day last month so he could visit friends and old teammates.”

“Despite his illness, he even managed to step into the batting cage to take a few swings. His nickname, ‘Bad Dude’ couldn’t have been more appropriate. A four-time All Star, John was one of the most complete catchers in Mets history. Our thoughts and prayers are with his friends and family.”

Stearns began his profession in the program with the Philadelphia Phillies in 1974 — however just played one video game prior to he was traded to the Mets.

He went on to end up being a fan favorite for the method he played behind the meal. In among his most unforgettable minutes as a catcher, he broke Pirates outfielder Dave Parkers‘ cheekbone after he tagged him to end a video game in 1978.

Stearns’ most well-known minute, however, can be found in 1980 … when he suppressed a fan who ran onto the playing field. Stearns likewise acquired prestige for his participation in a bench-clearing brawl weeks later on.

After retirement, due to career-ending injuries, Stearns held a number of functions in the league consisting of being a scout for the Mets, Brewers and Reds.

He likewise ended up being an ESPN broadcaster in 1993.