The community of Saint John, New Brunswick is mourning the death of Shawn Crawford, a longtime Saint John Alpines player, who passed away suddenly following a brief illness, leaving teammates, fans, and loved ones in shock.
Shawn Crawford was a standout figure in local baseball, joining the Alpines in 1996 and making an immediate impact with an impressive .362 batting average in his rookie season. Over the years, he proved himself as a true two-way player, contributing as a pitcher, first baseman, and outfielder, a rare versatility that made him invaluable to his team.
His career highlight came as a member of the Alpines’ 2001 national championship squad, a moment that cemented his place in the team’s history. Beyond the stats, Shawn was known as a baseball purist, someone who genuinely loved the game, right down to being a dedicated New York Yankees fan. His passion wasn’t performative, it was just who he was.
Shawn Crawford will be remembered not only for his athletic ability but for his presence as a teammate and friend. His passing leaves a lasting void within the Alpines organization and the wider baseball community, with many holding onto the legacy he built both on and off the field.