MLB Executive Billy Bean Dies at 60

Billy Bean, former Major League Baseball player and MLB's Senior Vice President for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion, passed away at the age of 60 after a battle with acute myeloid leukemia. Bean played for the Detroit Tigers, Los Angeles Dodgers, and San Diego Padres from 1987 to 1995, and later became the second former MLB player to come out as gay in 1999. He was instrumental in promoting LGBTQ+ inclusion and diversity within the sport, having been appointed as MLB's first Ambassador for Inclusion in 2014. Bean's efforts in advancing equality within baseball were widely recognized and praised, with MLB Commissioner Rob Manfred calling him one of the kindest and most respected individuals in the sport. His legacy includes not just his playing career but his significant contributions to making baseball a more inclusive and supportive environment. Tributes from former teammates and MLB officials highlight Bean's impact both on and off the field.