Former Los Angeles Angels prospect, Aaron Cox, died Wednesday morning at the age of 24. Aaron Cox is the brother-in-law of Mike Trout.
Former Los Angeles Angels prospect, Aaron Cox, died Wednesday morning at the age of 24. Aaron Cox, who is also the brother-in-law of Mike Trout, was a pitcher in the Angels’ system until he announced his retirement earlier this month. The cause of death was not listed.
The Angels released a statement regarding Cox’s passing.
“The Angels Organization is saddened to hear of the passing of Aaron Cox, a member of the Angels’ family since 2015. We are deeply heartbroken and shocked by this tragic loss. Our heartfelt prayers and condolences to his family and friends.”
Per ESPN, a statement from Mike Trout, his wife Jessica (Aaron’s sister), and their families was released shortly after.
More from Los Angeles Angels
- Los Angeles Angels suffer horrific 1-2 punch as postseason door slams shut
- Los Angeles Angels: Nolan Schanuel to join big league club this weekend
- Stock Up, Stock Down: Two teams rising, two falling post-trade deadline
- MLB Trade Deadline: AL West roundup with Rangers, Angels, Astros wishlist, A’s and Mariners for sale
- Shohei Ohtani: Why he could be Major League Baseball’s first $1 billion player
“Early this morning our families lost a phenomenal human being. Aaron Cox was a tremendous son, brother, and brother-in-law. He had a deep love for his family, and a passionate dedication and commitment to his friends. As our families grieve together, we will also celebrate the memories, the laughter, and the love we each shared with Aaron in the short time we had him. He will forever be at the forefront in the hearts and minds of the Cox and Trout families. We will rely on the love and strength of God first and foremost during this difficult and challenging time, as well as our dear family and friends. We thank you for your thoughts and prayers, and our Lord and Savior for His precious gift of Aaron Joseph.”
Like Mike Trout, Cox was a native of New Jersey. The right-handed pitcher was drafted in the 19th round of the 2015 MLB Draft, spending all of his four professional seasons in the lower levels of the Angels farm system. In 68 games (all pitched in relief), Cox was 7-3 with a 3.64 ERA in 101.1 innings pitched. Cox had announced his retirement nine days before his death.
This news is heartbreaking, but it reminds us of the family behind baseball. Not only do the Los Angeles Angels stand behind the family, but the baseball world does as well.