The Toronto Blue Jays and Major League Baseball to Honor the Late Billy Bean on the One-Year Anniversary of His Passing
On August 6, 2025, the Toronto Blue Jays, in partnership with Major League Baseball (MLB), will commemorate the one-year anniversary of the passing of Billy Bean, a trailblazer in the sport and a beloved figure in the baseball community. This special tribute will take place prior to the Blue Jays’ home game at Rogers Centre and will serve as a moment to honor his legacy both on and off the field.
Billy Bean, who passed away in 2024, was more than just a former MLB player. He was a symbol of courage, inclusion, and transformation within the game. After retiring from baseball, Bean became a prominent advocate for LGBTQ+ rights and served as MLB’s Vice President and Special Assistant to the Commissioner, focusing on diversity, equity, and inclusion efforts throughout the league. His groundbreaking role helped shape a more accepting and inclusive environment in professional baseball, encouraging players and fans alike to be their authentic selves.
The commemoration will include a pre-game ceremony featuring video tributes, guest speakers from across the league, and a moment of silence. Members of Bean’s family, former teammates, and MLB officials are expected to be in attendance. The Blue Jays will also wear commemorative patches for the game, and fans will receive special programs highlighting Bean’s achievements and impact on the game.
This remembrance is not just about honoring the man, but also about continuing the work he championed. The Blue Jays organization has long been committed to community engagement and diversity, and this event further solidifies their role in advancing inclusion within professional sports.
Major League Baseball has also announced that August 6 will be recognized annually as “Billy Bean Day,” encouraging clubs across the league to promote messages of acceptance and unity. Educational initiatives and community events are expected to accompany the league-wide observance in the years ahead.
Billy Bean’s life was a testament to resilience, honesty, and leadership. As fans gather at the ballpark to celebrate his memory, the event will serve as a reminder of the progress the sport has made—and the journey that still lies ahead.