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RIP 'Terrific Tom': Tom Seaver, Mets legend and Hall of Fame pitcher, dies at 75 due to Covid-19

The star was a force to reckon with as he won 311 games; he died in his sleep due to complications from Lewy body dementia and Covid-19

In what comes as tragic piece of news for New York Mets fans, legendary Hall of Fame pitcher Tom Seaver died on Monday. He was 75. He died in his sleep due to complications from Lewy body dementia and Covid-19, according to ESPN.

Nicknamed "Terrific Tom", Seaver was a force to reckon with as he won 311 games, of which 198 came for the Mets in an illustrious 20-year career. His Mets stint ended with a trade to the Reds known as "The Midnight Massacre", a move that is still talked about. Following his dementia diagnosis, Seaver retired from public life in 2019. According to the site, the Mets honored the player in March last year by naming a seven-block stretch outside Citi field in his name with a statue. The stadium's permanent address was changed to 41 Seaver May as well.

Seaver is survived by his wife Nancy and daughters Sarah and Anne. Talking to the Baseball Hall of Fame, the family said: "We are heartbroken to share that our beloved husband and father has passed away. We send our love out to his fans, as we mourn his loss with you."

Social media was filled with tributes for the late pitcher as soon as the world heard of his demise. "Easily one of the greatest pitchers of all time, and 100% the best pitcher in NYM history, you will be missed Goat.. sleep well," a fan wrote.

"RIP to the greatest Met, Mr. Tom Terrific. What a shame this man didn't get the proper recognition from the Wilpons. The first thing the new owner should do is put up as many statues & photos of Seaver as he can all over the stadium. Citifield should become a shrine to him," said another.

"RIP Tom Terrific. The Franchise. No pitcher more dominating. Clutch. Look at all the 2-0, 1-0, games he lost. All the shutouts. All the complete games. That ERA. If you didn’t get to see him pitch you missed something. 2020 gets even sadder. Heartbroken Mets Fan," read one of the tweets.

"Today it seems like everyone is lazily tabbed a GOAT. Few truly are. Tom Seaver is the GOAT, a fan opined.

"One of the greatest pitchers to play the game. Rest in peace and condolences to his family. They don't make guys like him anymore," a tweet read.

According to the Mets official site MLB Commissioner Rob Manfred said, "I am deeply saddened by the death of Tom Seaver, one of the greatest pitchers of all-time. Tom was a gentleman who represented the best of our National Pastime. He was synonymous with the New York Mets and their unforgettable 1969 season. After their improbable World Series Championship, Tom became a household name to baseball fans – a responsibility he carried out with distinction throughout his life. On behalf of Major League Baseball, I extend my condolences to Tom’s family, his admirers throughout our game, Mets fans, and the many people he touched."

In response to the Mets' statement on Twitter, the New York Rangers offered their condolences as well. "The Rangers are saddened to learn of the passing of New York Mets legend, Tom Seaver. Our deepest condolences to his family and friends. Rest in Peace Tom Terrific," the tweet read.