Former Orioles infielder Ryan Minor has passed away after battling colon cancer

Ryan Minor, remembered for replacing Cal Ripken Jr. at third base on the night that baseball’s Iron Man voluntarily ended his consecutive-games streak, died tonight after fighting Stage 4 colon cancer for more than a year. He would have celebrated his 50^th birthday on Jan. 5.

Minor was placed in home hospice care last month.

Minor’s twin brother Damon, who played for the Giants from 2000-04, shared the news in a message on X, formerly known as Twitter.

“After a courageous and hard fought battle I’m sad to say that Ryan lost his fight with cancer this afternoon,” Damon wrote. “He truly was the best twin brother you can ask for. His family and I want to thank everyone for the prayers and support during this time.”

Minor spent parts of three seasons with the Orioles and finished in 2001 with the Expos. He also was a basketball standout at the University of Oklahoma and was drafted in two sports. He later managed at Single-A Delmarva and Frederick.

The Keys also posted a message tonight.

“The Frederick Keys are devastated to learn that Ryan Minor passed away this afternoon after a courageous battle with colon cancer. Drafted by the Baltimore Orioles in 1996 he managed the Keys in 2013, 2018, and 2019. We send our heartfelt condolences to his family at this time.”

Minor played in 87 games with the Orioles after they drafted him in the 33^rd round in 1996. He was a hitting coach with Delmarva before beginning his managerial career. He also managed in the Tigers’ system.

“We are deeply saddened by the passing of former third baseman and longtime minor league manager Ryan Minor, who courageously fought cancer,” the Orioles posted. “Our thoughts and prayers are with Ryan’s family and friends at this time.”

Ripken walked into manager Ray Miller’s office on Sept. 20, 1998 and said, “It’s time,” which prompted a sudden and historic lineup change after he played in 2,632 games in a row to break Lou Gehrig’s record.

Miller summoned Minor and told him that he’d be starting at third base against the Yankees.

“Does Cal know?” Minor asked.

Minor leaves behind his wife, Allyson, and daughters Regan and Finley.

“Ryan was an incredible coach, friend and human being,” said former Orioles minor league pitching coach Kennie Steenstra. “He loved his family more than anything. I’ll always remember his quick wit and sense of humor. My prayers go out to Allyson and the rest of his family.”