Billy Bean: Trailblazing Advocate for Inclusion Dies at 60

MLB Remembers Life of LGBTQ+ Pioneer

New York, NY –

Major League Baseball is mourning the loss of one of its most influential figures, Billy Bean, who passed away at the age of 60. Bean, who spent years playing in the league, later became a vocal advocate for LGBTQ+ rights, using his platform to push MLB and the entire sports world towards greater inclusivity.

Bean rose to prominence as a second baseman for eight different teams between 1987 and 1995. However, his legacy extends far beyond his on-field achievements. In 1999, Bean became only the second former MLB player to publicly come out as gay, a bold move that paved the way for others in the sport to feel more comfortable living openly.

Following his retirement, Bean dedicated his life to promoting acceptance and equality in the sporting world. He worked tirelessly with MLB to develop and implement policies that protected and supported LGBTQ+ players and staff. He also founded the Billy Bean Foundation, a non-profit organization that provides resources and mentorship to LGBTQ+ youth in sports.