In the world of professional baseball, few stories are as poignant as Damon Minor’s journey through grief and remembrance. As a hitting coach for the San Francisco Giants, Damon carries forward not just his own baseball career, but the vibrant memory of his twin brother Ryan, who passed away from colon cancer in December 2023.

Growing up in a small western Oklahoma town, the Minor twins were exceptional athletes. Ryan was naturally talented, while Damon worked tirelessly to keep pace. Their bond transcended competition, rooted in a deep brotherly love that propelled them to remarkable achievements. Together, they won the 1994 College World Series for the University of Oklahoma, a memory Damon cherishes deeply.

Ryan’s athletic prowess was extraordinary. Drafted by the Philadelphia 76ers and scouted by legendary basketball coaches like Bobby Knight, he ultimately chose baseball with the Baltimore Orioles. His unexpected debut replacing Cal Ripken Jr. on September 20, 1998, became a historic moment that Damon witnessed firsthand.

After Ryan’s passing, Damon continues to honor his brother’s legacy. He remains close to Ryan’s family, including his wife Allyson and daughters Reagan and Finley. A golf tournament supporting special-needs children, a cause Ryan championed, will be held in October in Maryland.

For Damon, coaching is more than a profession, it’s a way to keep his brother’s spirit alive. “When you lose a twin brother, you miss him every day,” he reflects. Through his work with the Giants, Damon transforms personal loss into inspiration, teaching young players the work ethic and passion that defined Ryan’s life.

Their story is a testament to sibling love, resilience, and the enduring power of memory in professional sports.