Glenn Burke

"They can't ever say now that a gay man can't play in the majors, because I'm a gay man and I made it." --Glenn Burke

In the 157 years of professional baseball, only two players have come out as gay, Glenn Burke and Billy Bean; however, neither came out publicly until after they retired. Since Burke came out first, I'm honoring him as my first GAY Retro-MLBoyfriend. (Maybe next year, Billy!)

Billy Bean actually made a pretty nice video tribute to Glenn Burke, but it's a little to MLB-corporate branded. So, I'm going with this dishier tribute. (You didn't hear it from me, but the name of the "coach" mentioned in this video might rhyme with Lommy Tasorda.)

Whether or not Glenn Burke gave the first high-five is disputed. However, it is clear that it was a spontaneous action between Burke and Dusty Baker, and it seems to be the first on national television. Certainly, the fact the LA Dodger adopted it as their celebration is what caused it to spread like wild fire through sports.

Glenn Burke died of HIV/AIDS in 1995. The Dodgers honored Burke at their 2022 Pride Night including having his brother, Sydney, throw out the ceremonial first pitch.

Thank you, Glenn Burke! I am proud to name you as my Retro-MLBoyfriend.