Billy Bean returns to Major League Baseball as sport’s first first Ambassador for Inclusion

Billy Bean’s Major League Baseball career was cut short because of the stress and anguish caused by his being a closeted gay man and trying to keep that secret from his teammates.

During his eight-year career, Billy played for the Detroit Tigers, for the Los Angeles Dodgers, and the San Diego Padres.

It was announced before last night’s All-Star game that Billy, now 50, has been made the league’s first Ambassador for Inclusion.

Billy will provide guidance and training related to efforts to support those in the LGBT community throughout the organization including both major and minor league clubs.

‘I don’t want to change baseball. I don’t want players to feel uncomfortable,’ he says.

‘I don’t want them to think that we’re trying to force them to say or do or act or be something they’re not. It’s just a matter of whoever it affects, they are role models. Especially now, it’s an instant world. With the way everyone’s on Twitter. Just to be more cautious and understanding and maybe once they’re exposed to the resources, they’ll think differently.’