Longtime Boston Red Sox outfielder Mike Greenwell has died at the age of 62.
Greenwell played his entire career with the Red Sox, from 1985 until his retirement in 1996. In 1988, Greenwell finished second in the American League MVP race behind Jose Canseco.
At the time of his death, Greenwell was a county commissioner in Lee County, Florida, having first been appointed to the position in 2022. Greenwell was re-elected in 2024. Lee County is located in southwest Florida and includes the spring training home of the Fort Myers Red Sox.
Greenwell’s wife told Florida news station WINK that he died Thursday while in Boston. Greenwell told the station in August that he was undergoing treatment for medullary thyroid cancer.
“It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Commissioner Mike Greenwell, a longtime resident of Lee County. He was a strong advocate for the citizens and businesses of Lee County and will be remembered for seeking meaningful solutions to the challenges facing his community,” the Lee County government page posted on Facebook. “We extend our deepest condolences to his family, friends and all those who were touched by his leadership.”
During his 12-year career with the Red Sox, Greenwell had a .303 batting average, along with 130 home runs and 726 RBIs.
Greenwell played sparingly in his first two seasons, then finished fourth in Rookie of the Year voting in 1987. A year later, he made the American League All-Star team, finished second in the MVP race and won a Silver Slugger Award. Greenwell earned a second All-Star appearance in 1989.
Funeral services for Greenwell have not yet been announced.
