Seattle Mariners outfielder Greg Halman was stabbed to death early this morning in the Netherlands, police said.
His club and baseball officials hailed the 24-year-old Halman as a young man with a passion for the game and for instilling it in youngsters.
Mariners chairman Howard Lincoln, president Chuck Armstrong and general manager Jack Zduriencik paid tribute to Halman on behalf of the club.
“Greg was a part of our organization since he was 16 and we saw him grow into a passionate young man and talented baseball player,” they said in a statement. “He had an infectious smile that would greet you in the clubhouse, and he was a tremendous teammate. Our thoughts and prayers go out to Greg’s family.”
Halman’s brother was taken into custody.