Honoring Fay Vincent: MLB commissioner, baseball purist, and friend of the Jesuits

The passing of Fay Vincent Jr. in Vero Beach, Florida at the age of 86 left a void in the hearts of many, including those at America who considered him a friend, advisor, and contributor. Remembered as the last independent commissioner of Major League Baseball, Vincent had a diverse career that spanned business and law, with stints at Columbia Pictures, Coca-Cola, and the Securities and Exchange Commission.

Born in Connecticut in 1938, Vincent initially found himself on a path to football at Williams College before a fall left him with lasting injuries. Despite this setback, he continued his education, eventually earning his law degree from Yale in 1963. It was there that he forged a friendship with A. Bartlett Giamatti, the former president of Yale, who would later recruit him to become deputy commissioner of Major League Baseball in 1988.

Vincent’s tenure as commissioner was marked by challenges, including the aftermath of Giamatti’s ban of Pete Rose for gambling on baseball and a devastating 1990 player lockout. His decision to ban George Steinbrenner from the New York Yankees also drew attention, showcasing his commitment to upholding the integrity of the sport amidst adversity.

Despite facing backlash from team owners who sought a more compliant commissioner, Vincent remained steadfast in his impartiality, eventually leading to a vote of no confidence in 1992 that precipitated his resignation. Reflecting on his time in office, Vincent shared his thoughts on the enduring nature of baseball, assuring fans that the game would withstand any turmoil or tumult.

Following his resignation, Vincent delved into private investing and served as the president of the New England Collegiate Baseball League. A published memoir, “The Last Commissioner: A Baseball Valentine,” offered insights into his time as commissioner and reflections on the sport he loved. His contributions extended beyond baseball, with writings on diverse topics ranging from music to art, showcasing his wide-ranging interests and intellectual curiosity.

Vincent’s friendship with George W. Hunt, S.J. – the former editor in chief of America – was a source of comfort and connection throughout his life. His generous support of the George W. Hunt, S.J. Prize for Excellence in Journalism, Arts, and Letters demonstrated his commitment to honoring Hunt’s legacy and fostering excellence in these fields.

In an interview on morality in baseball, Vincent voiced concerns about the influence of performance-enhancing drugs, emphasizing the importance of maintaining the integrity of the sport at all levels. His dedication to upholding ethical standards and preserving the spirit of baseball resonated throughout his career, leaving a lasting impact on the sport and those who knew him.