Billy Bean, a former Major League Baseball (MLB) outfielder and a passionate advocate for LGBTQ+ rights, has passed away at the age of 60 after a yearlong battle with acute myeloid leukemia. His impact on baseball and beyond is profound, and he leaves behind a legacy of inclusion and empathy.
Here are some key points about Billy Bean:
Coming Out as Gay:
In 1999, Billy Bean became the second MLB player to publicly come out as gay. His courage and openness helped pave the way for greater acceptance and understanding within the sports community.
His interview with the Miami Herald marked a significant moment in baseball history.
Playing Career:
Bean was drafted by the New York Yankees in 1985 but later joined the Detroit Tigers after improving his draft stock.
He played parts of six MLB seasons for the Tigers, San Diego Padres, and Los Angeles Dodgers as an outfielder and first baseman.
Advocacy and Leadership:
After retiring from baseball in 1995, Bean returned to the game in 2014 as MLB’s first Ambassador for Inclusion.
In this role, he worked tirelessly to promote equality for players, coaches, umpires, and all stakeholders within baseball.
Bean served on the MLB Owner’s Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Committee and contributed to anti-bullying education programs.
Cancer Diagnosis:
In December, Bean revealed that he had been diagnosed with cancer. His resilience and positive spirit inspired many.
Diamondbacks manager Torey Lovullo expressed heartfelt sentiments, emphasizing the need to support Bean during his difficult time.
Billy Bean’s impact extended far beyond the field. He made baseball a better institution by championing inclusivity, empathy, and doing the right thing. Major League Baseball mourns his loss, and our thoughts are with his husband, Greg Baker, and their entire family
