Former Mets Relief Pitcher Jeff Innis Dies At 59 From Cancer

Former New York Mets relief pitcher Jeff Innis died Sunday in Dawnsonville, Georgia, at 59 after a battle with cancer.

“He loved the fans and never shied away from any autographs,” Mets spokesperson Jay Horwitz said. “Jeff Innis was just a decent and humble guy who never made a big deal that he was a Major League player. Jeff was proud of the fact that the Mets were the only team he played for in the big leagues.”

Innis played seven seasons in MLB—all with the Mets—making his debut in 1987. He owns a 3.05 ERA in 288 appearances (one start).

His 212 appearances from 1991-1993 rank fourth in the Majors during that span. A University of Illinois product, Innis was selected by the Mets in the 13th round of the 1983 amateur draft.

Innis even attended Mets’ fantasy camp last November.

“All of the campers loved Jeff,” former Met Ron Swoboda said. “He talked to everybody and never let on his was ill.”

He is survived by wife Kelly, daughter Shannon, and son Keenan. Funeral arrangements are pending.