Seattle Mariners outfielder Greg Halman was stabbed to death on Monday in Rotterdam. He was 24 years old.
According to the Dutch news agency, ANP, Halman's brother was arrested as a suspect in connection with the early Monday morning incident.
"The Mariners family is deeply saddened by the tragic death of Greg Halman," said Mariners chairman Howard Lincoln, team president Chuck Armstrong and general manager Jack Zduriencik in a statement Monday. "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. 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, who was born in the Netherlands, had appeared in 44 games over the past two seasons with the Mariners.
"We are deeply saddened to learn of the tragic death of Greg Halman," said Michael Weiner, executive director of the MLB Players Association in a statement. "Greg was passionate about the game of baseball and generously gave of himself to share his passion with others in an attempt to help grow the sport's popularity across Europe. He will be sorely missed."
Halman was a member of the Dutch squad in the 2009 World Baseball Classic and also helped his country win the 2007 European championship.
"Having played for the Netherlands in the 2009 World Baseball Classic, and having participated in the recent 2011 European Big League Tour, Greg's lasting legacy is sure to be the trail he helped blaze for European youth to follow in his footsteps," Weiner's statement continued. "Our thoughts and prayers go out to Greg's family, his teammates, the Mariners organization and his many friends and fans throughout Europe and America."
Halman hit .230 in 87 at-bats with two homers and six runs batted in for Seattle last season.
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