The Kansas City Royals community is mourning the loss of one of its most unique contributors. Former Royals outfielder Terrance Gore passed away at the age of 34 on Friday, Major League Baseball confirmed Saturday morning.
Gore carved out a rare role during his professional career, earning recognition as one of the game’s most effective pinch runners. Drafted by the Royals in the 20th round of the 2011 MLB Draft, he quickly became a specialized weapon for postseason teams, particularly during Kansas City’s 2015 World Series championship vs. the New York Mets.
The outfielder’s legacy is defined by speed, instincts, and timing. Gore appeared in more than 100 major league games across eight seasons despite recording just 74 career at-bats. His value came almost entirely on the basepaths, where he stole 43 bases and was caught only nine times, placing him among the most efficient runners of his era.
That skill set translated seamlessly to October. Gore played a defining role during the Royals’ 2015 World Series championship run and later earned additional rings with the Los Angeles Dodgers and Atlanta Braves. His postseason efficiency made him a constant late-game threat, capable of altering outcomes without ever stepping into the batter’s box.
Major League Baseball acknowledged the loss Saturday with a message of condolence shared on its official X (formerly known as Twitter) account. The league emphasized Gore’s postseason impact, elite baserunning efficiency, and unique place in modern roster construction.
We are shocked and saddened to learn of the passing of Terrance Gore.
A member of the back-to-back AL champion and 2015 World Series champion Kansas City Royals, Gore played eight Major League seasons in all from 2014-2022. He also appeared for the Cubs, Dodgers, Braves, and… pic.twitter.com/dskvqtfHiz
— MLB (@MLB) February 7, 2026
The tribute emphasized both the 34-year-old veteran’s success on the field and his influence beyond the game. After his playing career ended with the Royals, he remained deeply connected to baseball, serving as a youth coach and mentor in Panama City, Florida, where he worked closely with young athletes and families.
His wife, Britney, and their three children survive Gore. Reports confirmed his death on Friday due to complications from a routine surgical procedure, a development that those close to him described as unexpected.
For Kansas City and the broader baseball world, the Georgia native’s passing represents the loss of a rare specialist and a respected mentor whose impact extended far beyond the box score.