South Jersey Baseball Star And Mike Trout's Brother-In-Law Dies

A former South Jersey high school baseball standout and brother-in-law of Mike Trout died Wednesday morning. Aaron Cox, who graduated from Millville High School in 2012, died at the age of 24, according to the Los Angeles Angels. The cause of death wasn’t released.

“The Angels Organization is saddened to hear of the passing of Aaron Cox, a member of the Angels family since 2015,” the team said on Twitter. “We are deeply heartbroken and shocked by this tragic loss. Our heartfelt prayers and condolences to his family and friends. Aaron will always have a special place in the hearts of those within the organization.”

Like Trout, Cox put together an amazing baseball career at Millville before moving on to become a member of the Angels. In 2012, Millville coach Roy Hallenbeck began designating a special member of the Thunderbolts baseball team to wear Trout’s No. 1 jersey, beginning with Cox, according to The Press of Atlantic City. That year, Cox was 6-0 as a pitcher, striking out 71 batters in 48.2 innings.

Cox was in the Angels system for three seasons, but retired from the sport on Aug. 6, according to ESPN. In his professional career, he was 7-3 with a 3.64 ERA in 68 appearances. Cox and Trout were also connected through marriage, as Cox’s sister, Jessica, married Trout in December.

“Early this morning, our families lost a phenomenal human being,” the Trout and Cox families said in a statement. “Aaron Cox was a tremendous son, brother and brother-in-law. He had a deep love for his family, and a passionate dedication and commitment to his friends. As our families grieve together, we will also celebrate the memories, the laughter, and the love we each shared with Aaron in the short time we had him. He will forever be at the forefront in the hearts and minds of the Cox and Trout families.”

Image via YouTube video