Ron Taylor, Baseball Legend and Blue Jays Doctor, Passes Away
The baseball world mourns the loss of one of its most emblematic figures. Dr. Ron Taylor, World Series champion with the St. Louis Cardinals and the New York Mets, and later a doctor for the Toronto Blue Jays, passed away this Monday, June 16th in Toronto after a long illness. He was 87 years old. Born in Toronto and a member of the Canadian Sports Hall of Fame, Taylor left an indelible mark both on and off the field. With a career spanning 11 seasons in Major League Baseball, Taylor stood out as a relief pitcher, proving his worth in crucial moments. He was a key player in the Cardinals’ championships in 1964 and the historic “Miracle Mets” of 1969. In this last season, his numbers were impressive: 59 appearances, 13 saves, a 9-4 record and an ERA of 2.72.In the 1969 World Series, Taylor shone with 2.1 scoreless innings, including a crucial save in the second game, where he struck out the legendary Brooks Robinson with two runners on base. Taylor debuted in MLB with Cleveland in 1962 and also played for Houston, San Diego, and the Mets. In his career, he accumulated 491 games, with a record of 45-43, 74 saves, and an ERA of 3.93. His performance in the 1969 National League Championship Series against Atlanta included a save and a win in the first two games. After his successful baseball career, Taylor graduated from medical school. Subsequently, he dedicated nearly 30 years as a doctor for the Toronto Blue Jays, combining his passion for sports with his vocation of service. Ron Taylor’s legacy is a testament to sporting excellence and medical service, an example of how dedication and competitive spirit can transcend the playing field.Ron was the only one on our team with postseason experience. He had won a championship with the Cardinals and brought a winning mentality. We didn’t win the title without Ron Taylor.
Art Shamsky, former teammate on the Mets
