MLB's Billy Bean, Second Baseball Star to Come Out as Gay, Passes Away at 60

Billy Bean has sadly passed away at age 60.

The Major League Baseball legend played baseball from 1987 until 1995 as part of the Detroit Tigers, the Los Angeles Dodgers, and the San Diego Padres. He most recently served as MLB’s Senior Vice President for Diversity, Equity & Inclusion and Special Assistant to the Commissioner.

He passed away on Tuesday (August 6) at his home following a yearlong fight with Acute Myeloid Leukemia.

Billy came out as gay in 1996 and was the second MLB player to ever come out publicly.

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Commissioner of Baseball Robert D. Manfred, Jr. said: “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.”

We’re sending our thoughts and condolences to Billy‘s loved ones during this difficult time.