Baytown Loses a Hero: Remembering Mike Easley
This week, the town of Baytown, Texas, is mourning the loss of a beloved sports figure. Former Texas A&M baseball star Mike Easley passed away at the age of 57, leaving behind a legacy both on and off the field. The official announcement came from the Texas A&M baseball team on Tuesday, and it has sparked an outpouring of love and remembrance from fans, teammates, and the entire Aggie community.
Record-Breaking Days
Easley was a standout first baseman and captain of the Texas A&M baseball team during a remarkable season in 1989. That year, the Aggies posted an impressive record of 58-7, which still stands as the best regular-season record in the program’s history. They also enjoyed an incredible 26 consecutive wins and shared the title of regular-season co-SWC Champion with Arkansas, solidifying their place in college baseball history.
But Easley wasn’t just a part of a great team; he was actively contributing to its success. In the 1989 season, he boasted a batting average of .338, smashing eight home runs and driving in 53 RBIs. His exceptional performance earned him All-Tournament honors in the NCAA Central Regional, showcasing his talent even when the season came to an end against LSU.
A Journey Through Baseball
After his time at Texas A&M, Easley was drafted by the Cleveland Indians (now known as the Guardians) in 1989 and went on to play four seasons in the minor leagues. But after stepping away from professional baseball, he returned to his roots. Easley became the owner of Baytown Ice, a local ice supply company in nearby Channelview, and recently retired to enjoy life with friends and family.
Health Struggles and Community Support
In the years leading up to his passing, Easley faced significant health challenges. He was battling a long-term heart condition, which ultimately led to both heart and kidney transplants earlier this year in February. After undergoing surgery, he experienced complications that landed him in the hospital in early September. Despite these tough battles, he fought valiantly and demonstrated a spirit that inspired many. His former teammate, Scott Livingstone, shared insights into Easley’s determination, revealing that he told his wife, “Don’t count me out,” as he prepared for surgery. In response, Livingstone initiated a fundraiser that provided shirts reading “Don’t Count Mike Out” to fans and friends, allowing them to show their unwavering support.
A Final Farewell
As news of his passing spread, the Aggie community took to social media to express their grief, responding to the announcement with the word “here,” a touching nod to the tradition of “Roll Call for the Absent” that takes place during the annual Aggie Muster, where fallen Aggie alumni are honored.
Earlier this spring, Easley had returned to Texas A&M to visit the baseball team for the 35-year reunion of the cherished 1989 squad at Olsen Field at Blue Bell Park. Those who remember him will not only reflect on his extraordinary career but will cherish the personality that made him a loved figure in Baytown and beyond.
As the community comes together in remembrance, Mike Easley leaves behind not just a remarkable sports legacy, but a reminder of resilience, camaraderie, and the strength of community. He will surely be missed but never forgotten.
