MINNEAPOLIS (AP) – Major League Baseball has appointed former outfielder Billy Bean, who came out as gay after his playing career, to serve as a consultant in guiding the sport toward greater inclusion and equality.
Commissioner Bud Selig made the announcement Tuesday before the All-Star game.
Joining Bean and Selig at a news conference was Lutha Burke, the sister of Glenn Burke, who was the first MLB player to reveal his homosexuality after retiring. Burke died in 1995.
Bean will provide guidance and training related to efforts designed to support the gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender community throughout baseball. He’ll work with players and front office personnel through the major and minor leagues.
Bean played for three teams over parts of six seasons. He dedicated his autobiography to Burke.
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