The baseball world and Southwest Florida community are mourning the loss of Mike Greenwell, the former Boston Red Sox All-Star and current Lee County Commissioner, who passed away on October 9, 2025, at age 62 after a battle with thyroid cancer. Greenwell’s death was confirmed by Lee County officials, where he had served as a commissioner since 2022 and was recently reelected in 2024.
From Fenway Park to Public Service
Greenwell, affectionately known as “The Gator,” was a fixture in Boston’s left field from the late 1980s through the mid-1990s, taking over the position from Hall of Famer Jim Rice. A left-handed hitter with a knack for line drives, Greenwell finished second in the 1988 American League MVP race behind Jose Canseco, posting a stellar .325/.416/.531 batting line with 22 home runs and 119 RBIs that season. He was a two-time All-Star, won a Silver Slugger Award, and was inducted into the Red Sox Hall of Fame—a testament to his impact on one of baseball’s most storied franchises.
After retiring from baseball, Greenwell returned to his beloved Florida, where he became deeply involved in local government. Colleagues and constituents remember him as a passionate advocate for Lee County’s citizens and businesses, bringing the same determination to public service that he once displayed on the diamond.
A Legacy Beyond Baseball
Greenwell’s influence extended far beyond the baseball diamond. Former teammates, like Ellis Burks, praised him as “an unbelievable teammate and an unbelievable friend,” highlighting the personal bonds he forged throughout his career. His commitment to family, community, and resilient spirit were hallmarks of his character, leaving a lasting impression on everyone he encountered.
Funeral arrangements have not yet been announced, but tributes are pouring in from the Red Sox organization, former players, and the Florida communities he served. Greenwell is survived by his wife, children, and extended family.
Remembering “The Gator”
Mike Greenwell’s story is one of excellence, adaptability, and service. From clutch hits at Fenway Park to fighting for his constituents in Lee County, he lived a life defined by dedication and heart. As the baseball world reflects on his career and the Florida community honors his leadership, Greenwell’s legacy will endure as a reminder of what it means to compete—and to care—with everything you have.
Sources
1. Red Sox OF Greenwell, 'unbelievable teammate and unbelievable friend,' dies at 62
2. Mike Greenwell: Death Rumors & The Truth Revealed
3. Sports | Red Sox All-Star Mike Greenwell Dies at 62
4. Latest Red Sox News | Boston Red Sox - MLB.com
5. Lee County commissioner, former Red Sox player Mike Greenwell dies
6. Latest Sports News - ESPN
7. [PDF] Lee County's water rates to rise Alta Resources' new home ... - Skyplex
8. Players who have hit for the cycle - MLB.com
