Mike Greenwell, a former outfielder for the Boston Red Sox, passed away at the age of 62. His wife, Tracy Greenwell, announced his death, confirming he died in Boston’s General Hospital. Tracy expressed her profound grief on social media, stating, “With a heavy heart, I lost my best friend today.”
Legacy of Mike Greenwell
Greenwell was a well-respected figure in both baseball and local politics. He was suffering from medullary thyroid cancer, as reported by The Boston Globe. His death was also acknowledged by Lee County Manager Bruce Harner, who shared condolences on the county’s social media platforms.
Baseball Career Highlights
- Played 12 seasons with the Boston Red Sox.
- Earned two All-Star selections.
- Finished second in the 1988 American League MVP voting.
- Inducted into the Red Sox Hall of Fame in 2008.
- Achieved a .303 career batting average with 130 home runs and 726 RBIs.
Born in Louisville, Kentucky, and raised in Florida, Greenwell attended North Fort Myers High School. He launched his Major League Baseball career in 1985 and was integral to the Red Sox team that reached the World Series in 1986. His nickname, “The Gator,” came from a memorable spring training incident where he famously captured an alligator and playfully showcased it to his team.
Remarkable Achievements
Greenwell’s standout season occurred in 1988 when he posted impressive stats: a .325 batting average, 22 home runs, 119 RBIs, and 16 stolen bases. He also hit for the cycle in a significant game during that season. His performance earned him an impressive total of 23 game-winning RBIs, a record that is no longer officially recognized by Major League Baseball.
Despite the historic rivalries on the field, his character earned him admiration from teammates. Bob Stanley, a pitcher, recalled him as a great teammate and a person committed to his roots in Fort Myers.
Post-Baseball Life
After retiring from baseball, Greenwell pursued a career in auto racing, competing in late-model stock cars and later in NASCAR’s Truck Series. He stepped back from racing in 2010.
Following his time in sports, Greenwell ventured into local politics and was appointed to the Lee County Commission in 2022, later being reelected in 2024. His contributions to the community were appreciated by many.
Mike Greenwell is survived by his wife, Tracy, and their two sons, Bo and Garrett. His legacy as a talented athlete and devoted public servant will be fondly remembered by family, friends, and fans alike.
