A former baseball executive who spearheaded the creation of MLB's Futures Game and its Urban Youth Academy program for underprivileged kids died suddenly this week.
Jimmie Lee Solomon, 64, passed away unexpectedly at his home in Houston, Texas, on Thursday, his daughter told the Associated Press.
Solomon held prominent roles during his two-plus decades in MLB's league offices, where he was first hired under former Commissioner Bud Selig.
Commissioner Rob Manfred praised Solomon for his work in boosting young athletes.
“I am surprised and saddened by the news of the passing of our former colleague,” Manfred said in a statement. “Jimmie Lee was passionate about providing opportunities to young athletes and advancing baseball in our communities. Our network of youth academies across the country is in large part a credit to his hard work and dedication.”
Solomon served as director of Minor League operations and later as executive vice president for baseball development, MLB.com reported.
In those capacities, Solomon oversaw the launch of the Futures Game, a showcase game for budding minor leaguers which is held every year during the Major League All-Star break.
He also set up the league's first MLB Youth Academy, in Compton, California, as part of an effort to rekindle interest and participation in baseball among underserved kids. There are now 10 such academies around the US, the MLB.com report said.
Academy alumni who later reached the Majors include JP Crawford, Khris Davis, Hunter Greene, Aaron Hicks, Kyle Higashioka, Dominic Smith, Dillon Tate and Vince Velasquez, the Associated Press reported.
Astros manager Dusty Baker called Solomon "a great friend and brother."
Solomon, who resigned from MLB in 2012, had recently joined a private equity firm including Baker, former Mets GM Jim Duquette, and Giants GM Bobby Evans.
Seahawks quarterback Russell Wilson, once a top prospect on the diamond, credited Solomon with steering him to football, where he is now arguably the best quarterback in the NFL.
Wilson recently referred to Solomon as a "confidant and mentor," CNBC reported. "But I’m not alone, either. Regardless of celebrity or stature, Jimmie Lee has dedicated his life to creating opportunities for athletes at all levels.”
A native of Thompsons, Texas, Solomon held degrees from Dartmouth and Harvard Law School. His cause of death was not announced.