Billy Bean, who made history as the second former Major League Baseball player to come out as gay in 1999 before taking on the role of senior vice president for diversity, equity, and inclusion at MLB, has passed away at the age of 60. MLB confirmed his death in a statement, noting that Bean died at home on Tuesday after a yearlong battle with acute myeloid leukemia.
Born in California, Bean enjoyed six seasons in the major leagues between 1987 and 1995. He made a memorable debut with the Detroit Tigers by tying a record for a player’s first game with a four-hit performance. Throughout his career, he also played for the Los Angeles Dodgers and the San Diego Padres. Bean’s talents were evident even before his professional career; he was a two-time All-American outfielder at Loyola Marymount University, where he helped lead the team to the NCAA Men’s College World Series in 1986.
In 1999, Bean bravely came out as gay, becoming the second former major leaguer to do so, following Glenn Burke. His journey and experiences were encapsulated in his book, “Going the Other Way,” and he became a sought-after keynote speaker at numerous events.
In 2014, Bean joined the MLB commissioner’s office, appointed by former Commissioner Bud Selig as the league’s first Ambassador for Inclusion. Over more than a decade with MLB, Bean’s commitment to fostering a supportive environment earned him a promotion to senior vice president. In this role, he collaborated with MLB clubs to promote equality and ensure an inclusive and equitable workplace across all levels of the sport.
“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,” said MLB Commissioner Rob Manfred in the statement. “Billy was a friend to countless people across our game, and he made a difference through his constant dedication to others.”
