DEVELOPING: Mike Greenwell, the beloved two-time All-Star outfielder for the Boston Red Sox, has died at the age of 62. His wife, Tracy Greenwell, confirmed his passing, which occurred at 10:30 a.m. today at Boston’s General Hospital.
Greenwell’s death follows a battle with medullary thyroid cancer, as reported by The Boston Globe earlier this month. In an emotional tribute, Tracy shared on social media, “With a heavy heart, I lost my best friend today. It was Mike’s time to be an angel. We are forever grateful for the life he has given us.”
Florida Governor Ron DeSantis expressed condolences following Greenwell’s death, noting his contributions after being appointed to the Lee County Commission in 2022. The county government posted, “It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Commissioner Mike Greenwell, a lifelong Lee County resident,” highlighting his commitment to the community.
Born in Louisville, Kentucky, and raised in Florida, Greenwell was an iconic figure both on and off the field. He played his entire 12-season Major League Baseball career with the Red Sox, becoming a fan favorite. He made two All-Star appearances and finished second in the 1988 American League MVP voting, just behind Oakland’s Jose Canseco. That year, he recorded an impressive batting average of .325 with 22 home runs and 119 RBIs.
Greenwell’s career highlights include a memorable moment when he hit for the cycle in September 1988, and he holds the record for 23 game-winning RBIs in a season, a statistic no longer recognized by Major League Baseball. His legacy as “The Gator” came from a spring training prank involving an alligator, showcasing his playful spirit.
In addition to his baseball success, Greenwell ventured into auto racing after retiring in 1996. He participated in late-model stock car racing and made two starts in NASCAR’s Truck Series before retiring from racing in 2010.
Greenwell is survived by his wife, Tracy, and their two sons, Bo and Garrett. His passing marks a significant loss for both the baseball community and Lee County, where he was a dedicated public servant. As fans and fellow players mourn his death, tributes continue to pour in, celebrating a life filled with achievements both on the diamond and in the community.
WHAT’S NEXT: Memorial services and tributes are expected in the coming days as the sports world honors Greenwell’s legacy. Stay tuned for updates on memorial events and tributes from the baseball community.