I am a lifetime Mets fan. Buddy was the shortstop for the 69 Miracle Mets, helped get them to the World Series, and served as a manager or coach many times over the years. A close friend of my wife lived on the same block as his family when growing up. He was always out in the street throwing the ball around with the neighborhood kids. Just another neighborhood dad. His house was open to anyone who felt like stopping by. My friend is in her 60s now, but she has fond memories of Buddy. I guess in the end that's what counts.