Ed Charles, a beloved Met, poet and key component on the ’69 Miracle team, died Thursday at his home in Elmhurst, Queens, at the age of 84 after a long illness.
Charles, nicknamed “the Glider” for his smooth play at third base, only played three seasons with the Mets, 1967-69, yet achieved a kind of iconic status with the fans because of his spirited play at third base and his leadership qualities that endeared him to his teammates. All the years after his career ended in 1969, he made frequent appearances around the city, representing the team, and after passing a civil service exam, he worked with troubled youth in the Bronx.