Giants’ Former Backstop, World Series Coach, Dead At 64 After Cancer Battle

BusinessSportsMoneyGiants’ Former Backstop, World Series Coach, Dead At 64 After Cancer BattleByPeter Chawaga,Contributor.Forbes contributors publish independent expert analyses and insights. Peter Chawaga is a writer and editor covering Major League Baseball.Follow AuthorMay 27, 2026, 07:32pm EDT--:-- / --:--This voice experience is generated by AI. Learn more.This voice experience is generated by AI. Learn more.WASHINGTON, DC - APRIL 17: A view of the San Francisco Giants logo on a bat weight during the game against the Washington Nationals at Nationals Park on April 17, 2026 in Washington, DC. (Photo by G Fiume/Getty Images)Getty ImagesAs one of the oldest and most competitive franchises in Major League Baseball history, the San Francisco Giants have had many notable players end their careers with the organization after long and productive stints in the big leagues.For instance, 14-time All-Star Warren Spahn ended his time on the mound with a final season for the Giants. Long-time fans will also recall that former Houston Astros catcher Mark Bailey joined the Giants after five years in Texas, ending his career in California. And they’ll be saddened to learn that the long-time catcher has died at the age of 64 after a battle with cancer.“We are saddened to hear of the passing of longtime Astro Mark Bailey,” the Astros announced on X, formerly Twitter. “We send out heartfelt condolences to Mark’s family, friends and former teammates.”ForbesDodgers’ Mookie Betts Calls For More Support, ‘It Just Sucks’By Peter ChawagaFormer Houston Astros Catcher Mark Bailey Ended MLB Career With San Francisco Giants Bailey made his major league debut with the Astros in 1984, quickly becoming the team’s everyday backstop. His most productive campaign came in 1985, when he slashed .265/.389/.787 with 10 home runs and 45 RBI. MORE FOR YOUIn the middle of the 1988 season, the Astros traded Bailey to the Montreal Expos for utility player Casey Candaele and Bailey was relegated to the min...