Ryan Minor, a former infielder for the Baltimore Orioles and the Montreal Expos, passed away on December 22, 2023, at the age of 49, following a battle with cancer.
Minor gained prominence in the MLB for replacing Cal Ripken Jr. on September 20, 1998, which ended Ripken’s record of 2,632 straight games.
A 1974 Canton, Ohio native, Minor attended the University of Oklahoma, where he shone in both baseball and basketball. His contributions in baseball helped the Sooners win the 1994 College World Series championship. As a basketball player, he was honored as the Big Eight Conference Men’s Basketball Player of the Year in 1995, amassing 1,946 points in his college career.
Minor was selected in the 1996 NBA Draft by the Philadelphia 76ers but was released before the season’s start. Opting for baseball, he was drafted by the Baltimore Orioles in the same year. Minor first appeared in MLB with the Orioles in 1998.
He played in MLB for four seasons, from 1998 to 2001, representing the Baltimore Orioles and Montreal Expos in a total of 142 games. His career statistics include a .233 batting average, along with 5 home runs and 27 RBIs.
After his playing days, Minor turned to coaching, managing teams in the Orioles’ minor league system, including the Delmarva Shorebirds and Frederick Keys in Maryland. His passion for baseball extended into his coaching career, influencing a new generation of players.
The University of Oklahoma recently announced Minor’s induction into the Oklahoma Sports Hall of Fame in 2024, recognizing his achievements in both baseball and basketball.
Several institutions acknowledged Minor’s passing. The University of Oklahoma commemorated his legacy as a distinguished two-sport athlete, while the Baltimore Orioles expressed sorrow over his passing, noting his brave fight against cancer. Tributes from fans and colleagues have highlighted Minor’s respect within the baseball community.
Minor’s career, though not marked by extensive statistical records, is remembered for its historical significance, particularly his involvement in a landmark moment in baseball history. His professionalism throughout his career remains a notable aspect of his legacy.
Survived by his wife and two daughters, Minor’s life encapsulates success in two sports, a defining moment in MLB, and a meaningful impact as a coach.
