Michael Weiner, who took over the reins of the Major League Baseball Players Association just four years ago, died yesterday of complications associated with an inoperable brain tumor. He was 51 years of age. Weiner's laid-back style was a stark contrast to the more formal demeanor of his predecessor
Donald Fehr. Weiner had many connections to New England—including attendance at both Williams College and Harvard Law School. He was on the union's legal staff during the 1994-5 strike and was instrumental in the
'Grand Bargain' settlement that created labor peace in 1997. His courage during his 15-month illness was typified by the following quote:
"I don't take any day for granted. I don't take the next morning for granted. What I look for each day is beauty, meaning and joy, and if I can find beauty, meaning and joy, that's a good day." He will be missed by everyone in baseball.
