Billy Bean, a formative figure in Major League Baseball’s (MLB) office, passed away on Tuesday at the age of 60.
Bean died due to complications from acute myeloid leukemia, Fox News reported.
His role extended from the playing fields to the highest echelons of baseball administration, leaving an indelible mark on the sport.
Billy Bean wielded considerable influence within MLB.
He was responsible for leading initiatives that championed diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) along with radical social justice measures.
Born into the sport as a player, Bean’s MLB career spanned from 1987 until 1995.
Throughout those years, he played for the Detroit Tigers, Los Angeles Dodgers, and San Diego Padres. Over six Major League seasons, he accumulated a modest tally of five home runs, a .226 batting average, and 53 RBIs—statistical lines that belied the significant influence he would later have off the field.
After he retired from active play, Bean transitioned into a vital administrative role within MLB.
His ascendancy to the senior vice president for DEI marked a pivotal shift, not only in his career but also in MLB’s approach to far-left ideology.
In 2023, Bean faced a personal health battle when he was diagnosed with acute myeloid leukemia, an aggressive cancer that would ultimately claim his life.
Despite this diagnosis, Bean continued to advocate for the DEI agenda.
Under Bean’s guidance, MLB made significant changes to advance the implementation of education programs, partnerships, and policies aimed at ushering DEI into the league’s practices.
During his tenure, Bean worked directly with all 30 MLB clubs, promoting DEI initiatives.
MLB officially expressed its profound loss, stating:
“Over the last ten years, Billy worked passionately and tirelessly with MLB and all 30 Clubs, focusing on player education, LGBTQ inclusion, and social justice initiatives to advance equality in the game for all.
“His commitment reached across every facet of MLB, fostering an environment that cherished diversity and embraced inclusivity.”
Commissioner Rob Manfred shared his personal reflections on Bean’s passing, identifying him as “one of the kindest and most respected individuals I have ever known.”
Manfred elaborated that Bean’s efforts extended beyond just reforms, as he “made baseball a better institution, both on and off the field.”
