A career defined by durability
Ronald Kenneth Hunt, the St. Louis-born infielder who spent two decades in Major League Baseball, died on July 16, 2026, at the age of 85. His passing was confirmed after a long battle with Parkinson’s disease and cancer.
Born on February 23, 1941, Hunt excelled at both football and baseball in high school before signing with the Milwaukee Braves in 1959. He climbed through the minor leagues before making his MLB debut with the New York Mets, the team that would give him his first taste of regular playing time.
Hunt quickly became known for his durability and willingness to absorb pitches. He led the National League in hit‑by‑pitches for seven consecutive seasons, establishing a record that still stands as a testament to his willingness to take one for the team.
The 1964 season marked a career highlight when Hunt was selected as the starter for the All‑Star Game, the first Met ever to earn that honor. His performance that year underscored his status as one of the league’s most resilient players.
Over his career he wore the uniforms of the New York Mets, Los Angeles Dodgers, San Francisco Giants, Montreal Expos, and St. Louis Cardinals. Each stop added to a reputation for toughness, as he frequently played through injuries, including a concussion and chronic heel pain.
Despite the physical toll, Hunt’s perseverance earned him a place in the St. Louis Cardinals Hall of Fame in 2014, and two years later the franchise retired his number 17, cementing his legacy in the city where he began his professional journey.
Beyond the diamond, Hunt’s life was marked by family devotion. He is survived by his wife, three children, and six grandchildren, who remember him not only for his on‑field achievements but also for his steadfast character.
His story also intersects with broader baseball history, as he was mentioned alongside legends such as Pete Rose, Tony Taylor, and Bob Gibson in contemporary reflections on the game’s toughest competitors.