Mike Greenwell, a beloved former outfielder for the Boston Red Sox, has passed away at age 62 from cancer. He dedicated his entire Major League Baseball career to the Red Sox from 1985 until 1996.
Career Highlights of Mike Greenwell
Greenwell’s journey in baseball was marked by significant achievements. In 1988, he finished as the runner-up in the American League MVP voting, losing to José Canseco. His performance throughout the years earned him widespread acclaim.
During his 12 seasons, Greenwell maintained an impressive batting average of .303. He recorded 130 home runs and 726 runs batted in (RBI). His early years were modest; however, he gained recognition in 1987 by finishing fourth in the Rookie of the Year voting.
All-Star Appearances and Awards
Greenwell’s skill shone brightly when he made the American League All-Star team in 1988, where he also received a Silver Slugger award. He was selected as an All-Star once again in 1989, cementing his legacy within the sport.
Life After Baseball
After retiring, Greenwell remained linked to his community, serving as a County Commissioner in Lee County, Florida. He was first appointed to this position in 2022 and was re-elected in 2024. This area includes Fort Myers, known for being the Red Sox’s Spring Training home.
Impact on the Community
His wife informed local news outlets, including WINK, that Greenwell passed away on Thursday while in Boston. He had been undergoing treatment for medullary thyroid cancer before his death. The Lee County Government expressed their sorrow through a Facebook post, highlighting his commitment to the residents and businesses of the community.
- Name: Mike Greenwell
- Age at Passing: 62
- MLB Career: 1985 – 1996
- Batting Average: .303
- Home Runs: 130
- RBIs: 726
- All-Star Appearances: 2 (1988, 1989)
- County Commissioner: Lee County, Florida (Appointed in 2022)
Funeral services for Mike Greenwell have yet to be announced. He will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and fans alike, who remember him as a standout player and a dedicated community leader.
