Former MLB infielder and esteemed minor league instructor Mike Brumley tragically lost his life in a multi-vehicle crash in Mississippi at the age of 61.
The fatal accident occurred on Saturday on Interstate 20 near Edwards, Mississippi, involving three cars and two 18-wheelers.
Brumley was a passenger in a Ford Maverick and was pronounced dead at the scene. The incident, which also resulted in injuries to two other drivers, is currently under investigation by the Mississippi Highway Patrol.
A Career in Baseball
Mike Brumley had a varied and impactful career in baseball, playing for six teams from 1987 to 1995.
He was especially remembered for his significant role as a minor league instructor in the Atlanta Braves organization, where he greatly influenced the career of All-Star third baseman Austin Riley.
Riley, who received the heartbreaking news early Sunday morning, expressed his deep sorrow over the loss.
“I got a text about 2:30 this morning and I have been up since,” Riley said following his home run in Sunday’s 8-6 loss to the Tampa Bay Rays.
“There are very few people that have been role models in my baseball career, my dad being No. 1 and Mike Brumley being No. 2. I feel for his family and his kids and everybody that he was close to. This is a tragic day. Prayers out to his family. It’s a tough pill to swallow.”
Influential Mentor and Coach
Riley frequently communicated with Brumley and had recently worked on his swing with him during the Braves’ visit to Baltimore.
The Seattle Mariners, a team Brumley played for in 1990 and later coached for four seasons, also paid tribute to him. ”
We are saddened by the passing of former Mariners player and coach, Mike Brumley,” the team stated on social media. “Our hearts go out to his family, friends, and loved ones. Mike’s impact on the field, in our organization, and across baseball was felt by generations of players.”
Early Career and Major League Journey
Brumley’s journey in baseball began when he was a second-round pick by the Boston Red Sox in 1983. Before reaching the majors, he was involved in a notable trade that sent him and relief ace Dennis Eckersley to the Chicago Cubs in exchange for first baseman Bill Buckner in May 1984.
Brumley made his major league debut with the Cubs in 1987 and subsequently played for the Detroit Tigers (1989), Seattle Mariners (1990), Red Sox (1991-92), Houston Astros (1993, 1995), and Oakland Athletics (1994). Throughout his MLB career, he batted .206 with three homers and 38 RBIs in 295 games.
Contributions Beyond Playing
After his playing career, Brumley continued to contribute to the sport as a coach and instructor. He served as a coach for the Cubs in 2014 and held minor league instructor positions with the Texas Rangers (2005-07) and Los Angeles Dodgers (2009).
His deep understanding of the game and ability to mentor young players made him a valuable asset to every organization he worked with.
Legacy and Personal Background
Before being drafted into MLB, Brumley was a standout player at Texas, helping lead the College World Series-winning team in 1983, which included future big league pitchers Roger Clemens, Calvin Schiraldi, and Bruce Ruffin.
He was the son of former Major League catcher Mike Brumley, who played parts of three seasons with the Washington Senators in the 1960s.
Brumley’s death is a profound loss for the baseball community. His legacy as a player, coach, and mentor will be remembered by all who had the privilege of working with him.
His influence on players like Austin Riley underscores the lasting impact he had on the sport, shaping the careers of many future stars.
As the baseball world mourns his passing, Brumley’s contributions to the game will continue to be honored and cherished.
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