Mike Greenwell, a standout former outfielder for the Boston Red Sox and a two-time All-Star, has died at the age of 62. The cause of death was a rare form of thyroid cancer that he had been battling. Greenwell, a cherished member of the Red Sox Hall of Fame, played his entire professional baseball career with the iconic Boston team from 1985 to 1996.
His death was confirmed by the Lee County Government in Florida, where he had served as a commissioner. He was lauded for his strong advocacy for the local community and his efforts to find practical solutions to its challenges. The specific diagnosis was medullary thyroid cancer, an aggressive disease that makes up a small fraction of all thyroid cancer diagnoses in the United States and affects the C cells responsible for calcitonin production.
Affectionately nicknamed ‘The Gator,’ Greenwell was not only a fan favorite on the field but also a dedicated public servant off it. Tributes from across the baseball community and from his constituents reflect a deep respect for his character, his achievements, and his service. The Red Sox organization mourned the loss, remembering him fondly as a key player and a beloved personality who contributed greatly to the team and his adopted community. His legacy is remembered with warmth and admiration.