NEW YORK, NY – Friday, June 13, 2025 — In a heartbreaking announcement that rocked the baseball world, the family of New York Mets legend Darryl Strawberry confirmed that he passed away early Friday morning after suffering complications related to a recent heart attack. He was 63.

The news comes just days after reports that Strawberry had been hospitalized in serious condition, and the latest update on this otherwise symbolic Friday the 13th brought grief to fans, teammates, and the entire Major League Baseball community. Known for his powerful swing, towering home runs, and electrifying presence on the field, Strawberry’s legacy is deeply intertwined with the Mets’ history — and with the hopes and hearts of generations of fans.

A Towering Talent

Darryl Strawberry was one of baseball’s most captivating figures in the 1980s and early 1990s. He burst onto the scene with the Mets in 1983, winning the National League Rookie of the Year award. With a long, fluid swing and incredible raw power, Strawberry became one of the most feared sluggers in the game. During his eight seasons with the Mets, he smashed 252 home runs, earned seven All-Star selections, and helped lead the team to a dramatic World Series championship in 1986.

Strawberry’s combination of athleticism and charisma made him a fan favorite and a national star. He later went on to play for the Los Angeles Dodgers, San Francisco Giants, and New York Yankees, winning three additional World Series titles with the Yankees in the late 1990s. But to many, he would always be a Met first and foremost.

A Complicated Journey

While Strawberry’s on-field heroics were undeniable, his off-field life was marked by struggle, adversity, and redemption. His career was repeatedly interrupted by battles with addiction, personal challenges, and legal troubles. Yet, over the past two decades, he became a symbol of perseverance and transformation.

After retiring from baseball in 1999, Strawberry dedicated his life to faith, recovery, and helping others. He became an ordained minister and opened addiction recovery centers across the United States. Through candid interviews, public appearances, and ministry work, he shared his own story of brokenness and healing, inspiring countless individuals facing similar battles.

In 2021, he was honored by the Mets with a place in their Hall of Fame, an event that brought both tears and cheers from fans who had long supported him through thick and thin.

Family’s Statement

In a statement released early Friday morning, the Strawberry family expressed their deep sorrow:

“Our beloved husband, father, and friend, Darryl, passed away peacefully surrounded by loved ones. His life was a journey — one marked by great triumph, deep valleys, and a powerful comeback of spirit. We are devastated, but we are also proud of the man he became and the lives he touched.”

The family also thanked fans for their support during his recent hospitalization and asked for privacy as they grieve.

The Mets and Baseball Community React

The New York Mets released an official statement shortly after the news became public:

“Darryl Strawberry was more than just one of the most talented players to wear the Mets uniform — he was a symbol of hope, resilience, and human complexity. He brought joy to our city, power to our lineup, and later in life, inspiration through his redemption story. Today, we mourn not just the loss of a legend, but of a man who showed us that it’s never too late to change.”

Tributes poured in across social media and the sports world. Former teammates, including Dwight Gooden, Keith Hernandez, and Ron Darling, posted emotional messages, many of them reflecting on their brotherhood both on and off the field.

ESPN baseball analyst Tim Kurkjian described Strawberry as “one of the most gifted players of his era — and one of the bravest people I’ve seen in how openly he addressed his struggles.”

Yankees legend Derek Jeter also expressed condolences, stating:

“He was always kind to me as a young player. His story was not perfect, but it was powerful. Darryl showed strength in ways that went far beyond the baseball diamond.”

Remembering the Man Behind the Bat

Though known for his 335 career home runs, eight All-Star appearances, and iconic swing, Strawberry’s legacy today is also one of redemption. In his final years, he became a voice for those in recovery, an advocate for mental health, and a mentor to young athletes navigating the pressure of fame.

He authored several books, gave talks at churches and schools, and continued to attend Mets events, where fans always greeted him with gratitude and admiration.

Farewell to a New York Icon

The Mets announced they will honor Strawberry with a moment of silence at their next home game and are planning a celebration of life ceremony later this season at Citi Field. Flags will fly at half-staff throughout the ballpark.

Darryl Strawberry is survived by his wife, Tracy; their children; and a baseball world forever changed by his swing, his struggles, and ultimately, his strength.

He wore No. 18 — and he gave millions of fans a reason to believe that no matter how far you fall, there’s always a way back up.