Baseball Mourns the Loss of Billy Bean
Billy Bean, a towering figure in Major League Baseball, passed away at the age of 60 after a brave battle with acute myeloid leukemia. Bean's loss is felt deeply across the baseball community, as he was not only a talented player but also a pioneering advocate for inclusion and diversity within the sport.
Bean’s journey in professional baseball began when he was drafted by the New York Yankees in the 24th round out of Loyola Marymount in 1985. His potential was evident, and the following year he was picked in the fourth round by the Detroit Tigers. Over the course of six MLB seasons, Bean showcased his athletic prowess as an outfielder and first baseman, playing for the Tigers, San Diego Padres, and Los Angeles Dodgers. After a respectable career, Bean retired from active play in 1995.
While Bean's on-field accomplishments were significant, his contributions off the field were even more impactful. In 2014, MLB appointed Bean as its first Ambassador for Inclusion, a role in which he became a tireless advocate for diversity and acceptance. Bean stood out not just for his professional achievements but also for his personal courage, becoming the second MLB player to come out as gay. His 2003 memoir, "Going the Other Way: Lessons from a Life in and out of Major League Baseball," offered an intimate look into his experiences both within and outside the sport.
Tragically, Bean's personal life was marked by the loss of his partner to AIDS, an experience that undoubtedly shaped his empathetic and relentless advocacy work. Bean’s commitment to fostering an inclusive environment within the MLB and across sports was unwavering. He played a significant role in MLB’s support of Spirit Day, an event dedicated to standing against bullying and supporting LGBTQ youth.
Among his many initiatives, Bean was instrumental in the creation and promotion of educational programs aimed at preventing bullying. He contributed extensively to the 'Ahead in the Count' education program and worked diligently to elevate MLB's mental wellness resources. His efforts did not go unnoticed, as he was eventually appointed as a senior vice president for diversity, equality, and inclusion, and served on the MLB Owners' Diversity, Equity, & Inclusion Committee.
Bean’s diagnosis with acute myeloid leukemia in September of the previous year was a heavy blow. Despite his illness, Bean continued to focus on his passion for making baseball a better, more inclusive institution. His dedication, empathy, and exceptional communication skills earned him respect and admiration from all corners of the baseball world.
MLB Commissioner Rob Manfred expressed the collective grief and admiration of the baseball community, saying, "Our hearts are broken today as we mourn our dear friend and colleague, Billy Bean, one of the kindest and most respected individuals I have ever known. Billy was a friend to countless people across our game, and he made a difference through his constant dedication to others. He made baseball a better institution, both on and off the field, by the power of his example, his empathy, his communication skills, his deep relationships inside and outside our sport, and his commitment to doing the right thing. We are forever grateful for the enduring impact that Billy made on the game he loved, and we will never forget him. On behalf of Major League Baseball, I extend my deepest condolences to Billy's husband, Greg Baker, and their entire family."
Arizona Diamondbacks' manager Torey Lovullo echoed these sentiments in a heartfelt message to Bean: "I know that it's very hard for you right now, Billy, and it's our turn to take care of you. You have been the ultimate giver since the day that I've known you. So even though I know it's going to be very tough for you, it's time for you to sit down and let us love you up and take care of you."
Billy Bean's legacy extends far beyond the baseball diamond. His relentless advocacy for inclusion and his compassionate efforts to support mental wellness and prevent bullying have left an indelible mark on the sport. As the baseball community mourns his loss, it also celebrates the profound and lasting impact of a man who dedicated his life to making the game he loved better for everyone.