If only Nelson Doubleday kept the New York Mets, there might some hope.
In 1980, Nelson Doubleday bought the Mets from Lorinda de Roulet. She is original owner Joan Payson’s daughter.
The Mets were floundering throughout the late 1970’s. Most players from their 1969 and 1973 championship seasons were traded, thanks to M. Donald Grant. Grant was in charge of the team and became one of the most hated people in New York. The farm system was depleted and there were no serious stars on the team other than Lee Mazzilli.
Doubleday brought credibility back to the team.