Last season, the NFL preseason was marred by the sudden death of Korey Stringer. Now, MLB has begun its preseason with a tragedy. San Diego Padres outfielder Mike Darr was killed in a one car accident last night. Reports say alcohol was a factor. A passenger in the car was also killed. Such a waste!

[ February 15, 2002: Message edited by: George_vikingfan ]

Darr was 25 years old. He hit .273 over parts of the last three seasons with the Padres. Last year was his first full season, and he started 73 games, hitting .277 with 2 home runs and 34 runs batted in. He looked to be the Padres starting rightfielder this year. He was married with 2 sons, and his father played for the Blue Jays in 1977.

According to what I read in the sports section of Reuters.com,a 23 year old passenger in the back seat of the vehicle,was the only person wearing a seat belt and survived.His name is Benjamin Howard and is a minor league pitcher in the Padres' system.

[ February 15, 2002: Message edited by: BucsMan ]

It was sad to hear such tragic news at a time when new hope was beginning for everyone assoicated with baseball. I didn't follow
Mike Darr's career. But, from what I read, it sounds like he was a nice guy, a family man, a friend, and a ballplayer. My prayers go out to his family and his teammates and close friends.


[ February 15, 2002: Message edited by: satxbuddy1 ]

Always wear seatbelts when you're in a car. Please.........

How sad.

Another MLB-related car crash. It's not a coincidence that they probably survived by wearing seat belts. I wouldn't be surprised if the driver fell asleep at the wheel (it happened at 2 in the morning). Geez, put these guys on buses or something!