Derek Aucoin was a rare talent, making it to the majors from the minors. He played for the Montreal Expos, a team he loved watching as a kid. He lost his battle with glioblastoma on December 26, 2020, at 50.
He was born in Lachine on March 27, 1970. Aucoin’s journey from local fields to the big leagues in 1996 was remarkable. He debuted on May 21 and played his last game on May 25.
He had a 3.38 ERA and one strikeout in 2⅔ innings. Signed by the Expos in 1989, he became a hero to many. His family said he faced cancer with gratitude and grace.
People remembered him for his brief but impactful career. They also praised his life of giving back. For more on his journey, see this profile of Derek Aucoin. It shows why he’s a Canadian icon.
Remembering a Canadian Hero and Inspirational Figure
In Quebec and across Canada, Derek Aucoin’s legacy lives on. It’s seen in acts of kindness, mentorship, and a love for baseball. He was a hero and an inspiration who touched many lives with his words and spirit.
A legacy that resonated across Quebec and Canada
His impact went beyond the game. As a voice on TVA Sports and 98.5 FM, he reached fans in both French and English. In November 2019, he was inducted into the Quebec Baseball Hall of Fame, celebrating his service and inspiration.
He inspired young players to dream big and play with heart. Coaches and parents in Quebec saw him as a hero who lived his values every day.
Tributes from the baseball community and beyond
Leaders in Canadian baseball praised his warmth and support for youth. His colleagues saw him as a steady presence who made complex ideas simple. The Canadian Baseball Hall of Fame Board of Directors called him a “gentle giant,” vowing to keep his legacy alive.
His family shared his gratitude during his battle with glioblastoma. This courage inspired many outside the sport. Messages came from Montreal media, former teammates, and volunteers who felt his inspiration directly.
Why his story continues to inspire resilience and hope
He faced challenges with grace, turning each one into a lesson. As an inspirational figure, he showed the power of empathy and discipline. His talks remind the Canadian baseball community that leadership begins with listening.
His influence is felt in rinks, gyms, and diamonds across Canada. The Derek Aucoin legacy motivates young athletes to believe, give back, and spread inspiration in all aspects of life.
Early Life in Lachine, Quebec and Rise Through Canadian Baseball
Derek Aucoin’s journey began in Lachine, Quebec, with backyard throws. His path was marked by determination. He stood out as a bilingual athlete, inspiring fans and coaches alike.
Bilingual upbringing and athletic promise at 6’7”
He effortlessly switched between English and French. This skill opened doors in sports and the community. His height and calm demeanor made him a standout on the field.
High school at Collège Saint-Sacrement and local leagues
At Collège Saint-Sacrement in Terrebonne, he balanced school and sports. He played for Pierrefonds in the Lake Saint Louis midget AAA Baseball League and the St. Eustache Bisons in the Montreal Junior Baseball League. He played various roles, honing his skills in youth baseball.
Team Canada at the 1988 World Youth Baseball Championships
In 1988, he joined Team Canada. He threw a three-hit shutout against China, striking out six. He also scored a run in a 7–0 win. His performances with Paul Spoljaric against Cuba showcased his talent and dedication.
| Stage | Team/League | Role | Notable Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| High School | Collège Saint-Sacrement (Terrebonne) | Student-athlete, bilingual athlete | Balanced academics and training; emerged as an inspirational figure for peers |
| Amateur Quebec | Pierrefonds, Lake Saint Louis midget AAA | Pitcher/OF/DH | Built command and bat-to-ball skills rooted in youth baseball |
| Junior Quebec | St. Eustache Bisons, Montreal Junior Baseball League | Pitcher/Utility Hitter | Showcased two-way value; reinforced status as a Canadian baseball prospect |
| International | Team Canada, 1988 World Youth Baseball Championships | Starting/Combo Pitcher | 3-hit shutout vs China; combined 1–0 shutout vs Cuba with Paul Spoljaric |
From Amateur Free Agent to Montreal Expos Debut
His journey started at the Canadian Baseball Institute in Vancouver. He had raw size, focus, and poise on the mound. As an amateur free agent in 1989, he aimed to prove he could make it as a pro through hard work and minor-league development.
Signed by the Expos in 1989 and early minor-league development
The Expos signed him in July 1989. Pitching coach Larry Bearnarth praised his smooth motion and fastball. This was a key step in his minor-league journey.
He debuted as a pro in Florida that summer. He showed command under pressure. This hinted at his future as a resilience expert in sports.
Refining his fastball and mechanics in the Gulf Coast League
In the Gulf Coast League Expos, he struck out 27 in 23⅔ innings. He had a 2–1 record with a 2.66 ERA. Under coach Sid Monge, he made changes to his leg kick, adding late life and velocity to his fastball.
These changes sharpened his release and gave him confidence. They helped him develop into a professional baseball player.
Climbing the ladder: Jamestown, Sumter, Rockford, West Palm Beach
In 1990, he moved to the Short-Season Jamestown Expos. Then, in 1991, he went to Class-A Sumter, where he handled a heavy workload. In 1992, at Rockford, he found his groove in relief, posting strong numbers.
By 1993, at Advanced-A West Palm Beach, he continued to improve. Each step up tested his patience. But he kept climbing, showing growth as a player and a future resilience expert.
Major League Moment with the Montreal Expos
His Montreal Expos debut was filled with travel, rain, and nerves. Yet, he acted like a seasoned pro from the start. The call came when José Paniagua got hurt, and he quickly moved from Pawtucket to a game against the San Francisco Giants.
This was a brief but memorable moment for fans who watched him grow from Quebec ballparks.
Early Expos history in Montreal set the stage for this moment. It linked a new pitcher to a team known for grit and community pride. His early MLB stats were brief, but each pitch showed confidence that coaches trusted.
MLB debut on May 21, 1996 versus the San Francisco Giants
He came in for Jeff Fassero and threw well. A bunt by Steve Decker turned into an out, and Mel Hall rolled a grounder. Shawon Dunston singled, Stan Javier walked, and Robby Thompson’s RBI single pushed the game forward.
In two-thirds of an inning, he took the loss. Yet, his calm in a tight game against the San Francisco Giants was notable.
Second appearance at Olympic Stadium and first big-league strikeout
Five days later, he shone at Olympic Stadium. Against the Los Angeles Dodgers, he pitched two solid frames, giving up only a Mike Piazza single. He struck out Ramón Martínez for his first big-league strikeout, a moment that showed his readiness.
Career line: 0–1 record, 3.38 ERA, 1 strikeout in 2⅔ innings
His MLB stats tell a brief story: 0–1, 3.38 ERA, 1 K, 1 BB in 2⅔ innings over two games. Manager Felipe Alou praised his poise and hinted at future chances. The snapshot was short but significant for a pitcher who made his mark.
| Date | Opponent | Venue | Role | IP | H | R | BB | K | Decision |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| May 21, 1996 | San Francisco Giants | 3Com Park | Relief | 0.2 | 2 | 1 | 1 | 0 | L |
| May 26, 1996 | Los Angeles Dodgers | Olympic Stadium | Relief | 2.0 | 1 | 0 | 0 | 1 | ND |
| Total | — | — | — | 2.2 | 3 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 0–1 |
Perseverance in the Minors and a New Opportunity with the Mets
His path through the minors was tough and required a lot of grit. He rose to Harrisburg in 1994, then faced shoulder surgery. Yet, he kept showing perseverance in every role.
Ottawa Lynx highlights and AAA postseason success
The Ottawa Lynx was where he showed his skill under pressure. In 1995, he threw eight strong innings, striking out many. This AAA postseason success was a highlight of his career.
Injury, recovery, and the challenge of maintaining consistency
Rehab after labrum surgery was tough on his body and mind. He sometimes struggled with control and felt the strike zone was off. He talked about depression and finding routines, showing mental toughness.
1998 with the New York Mets system and closing a playing chapter
In 1998, he moved up through the New York Mets minors. He faced challenges in Florida and later in Binghamton and Norfolk. His late-season performance showed he was back on track. When his contract ended, his legacy of hard work and perseverance remained.
Mental Health Advocate and Resilience Expert
After the cheers faded, he chose candour over silence. As a mental health advocate and resilience expert, he shared how the grind of travel, injury, and uncertainty can test any athlete. His voice blended honesty with hope, giving practical tools for life and sports.
Openly discussing clinical depression and confidence
He talked about clinical depression openly, saying how it can shake confidence. “Confidence is everything. You can’t fake it,” he explained. He urged athletes to seek support early and often, turning stigma into dialogue.
Supporting athletes with mental toughness coaching
He became a mental toughness coach, meeting players where they were. Sessions included breath, focus cues, and recovery habits for long seasons. As a motivational speaker, he kept it simple: build skills, repeat them under stress, and share wins with your team.
Turning adversity into personal development and inspiration
Setbacks became blueprints for personal growth. He saw slumps, rehab, and roster moves as feedback, not verdicts. This approach inspired Canadian families, showing vulnerability and resolve, and a path forward for all.
His journey linked clubhouse lessons to daily life. He showed that a mental health advocate can also be a thoughtful motivational speaker and coach. By sharing tools for grit and care, he demonstrated how resilience grows through action, reflection, and community.
Coach, Baseball Instructor, and Builder of Youth Programmes
After his playing days, he became a dedicated baseball coach. His goal was to use the game to open doors for others. He created youth programmes that focused on both skill and character.
In Manhattan, he opened The Baseball Center NYC. It’s a 15,000-square-foot place where young athletes learn to play. Sessions were fun and focused on improving skills.
Opening The Baseball Center NYC and teaching globally
He didn’t just teach in one city. As a coach, he taught in clinics across North America and Europe. His goal was to share best practices and show how sport can unite people.
Young Canadians and Americans trained together at The Baseball Center NYC. They learned routines that helped them grow both on and off the field.
Partnering with Derek Jeter’s Turn 2 Foundation
He worked with the Derek Jeter Turn 2 Foundation. Together, they ran clinics that taught both skills and values. The message was clear: build a strong swing and a strong voice.
Workshops focused on making good choices, being accountable, and showing respect. This mix of technique and values inspired families and offered positive role models.
Using sport to build self-esteem, teamwork, and leadership
He coached confidence through action on every field. Small wins, like clean footwork, boosted self-esteem. Team drills emphasized clear calls, trust, and shared goals.
He also co-founded an entertainment production company in Los Angeles with Alexandre Daigle. This showed young athletes that leadership can extend beyond sports.
| Program Element | Goal | How It Works | Outcome for Athletes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Skill Clinics at The Baseball Center NYC | Raise on-field performance | Short, high-rep stations with targeted feedback | Improved mechanics, game awareness |
| Derek Jeter Turn 2 Foundation Clinics | Character and healthy choices | Mentor talks paired with position drills | Stronger decision-making, reliable habits |
| International Teaching | Grow the game and connect cultures | Coach education and youth sessions abroad | Expanded access, shared coaching standards |
| Leadership and Teamwork Blocks | Build voice and trust | Role rotation, communication cues, peer feedback | Confident leaders, cohesive teams |
| Personal Development Pathways | Transfer lessons beyond sport | Goal setting, reflection, community service | Resilience, purpose, lasting inspiration |
He left a blueprint: teach the game well, lift people higher, and let sport spark a life of growth.
Media Career, Public Speaker, and Author
In Montreal and Quebec, Derek Aucoin found a second home behind the mic. He turned game insight into clear, human stories. He used this platform to reach young athletes and fans alike.
Host and analyst with TVA Sports and 98.5 FM
As a host and analyst with TVA Sports and 98.5 FM, he blended pro experience with warmth. He explained pitching in simple terms, then talked about teamwork and courage. His voice became a steady guide on busy sports nights.
Listeners loved how he connected a tight strike zone to everyday grit. This balance made him a trusted voice on air and at the ballpark.
Induction into the Quebec Baseball Hall of Fame in 2019
His service to the game and community earned him a spot in the Quebec Baseball Hall of Fame in November 2019. The honour reflected years of outreach, clinics, and thoughtful media work.
He also served on the Board of Directors at the Canadian Baseball Hall of Fame from 2018. This added national perspective to his local roots.
Memoir La Tête Haute (Standing Tall) and keynote speaking
As an author, he shared La Tête Haute (Standing Tall), co-written with Benoit Rioux. The memoir offers snapshots of struggle and gratitude, told with candour and heart.
On stage, he moved audiences as a public speaker, motivational speaker, and keynote speaker. His talks focused on resilience, mental health, and giving back. The message was simple: stand tall, help others, and keep going.
Family, Community, and the Spirit of Gratitude
He loved his family deeply. In April 2011, he married Isabelle Rochefort. Their son, Dawson Paul Aucoin, was named after Hall of Famer Andre Dawson. This choice linked their family to Montreal Expos history.
When he got diagnosed with glioblastoma in 2019, he focused on living in the moment. He and his family practiced gratitude every day. Friends and supporters saw their care, faith, and determination.
Across Canada, people came together in support. Baseball Canada leaders, like André Lachance, praised his work with youth. His energy was felt at alumni events and development camps.
He became a hero to many parents and coaches. He showed that mentorship is powerful when it starts at home. His days were filled with school visits, clinics, and family dinners.
His legacy is built on service and gratitude. He taught us that a strong community starts with listening and acting. In many places, he left people stronger.
The lesson endures: when family leads, the community follows, and gratitude turns effort into impact.
| Theme | Real-world Touchpoint | Impact Across Canada |
|---|---|---|
| Family | Marriage to Isabelle Rochefort; son named for Andre Dawson | Modelled values that connected home life to Expos heritage |
| Community | Support from Baseball Canada and alumni gatherings | Expanded youth engagement through clinics and events |
| Gratitude | Public focus on living in the present during illness | Encouraged empathy, patience, and collective support |
| Canadian Hero | Recognition by André Lachance and Canadian baseball institutions | Reinforced national pride in mentorship and service |
| Inspirational Figure | Guidance for coaches, parents, and young athletes | Lasting example of leadership rooted in love and appreciation |
Farewell to a Professional Athlete and Canadian Role Model
The news hit the Canadian baseball community hard. A beloved athlete from Quebec, known for his grace and grit, left a lasting impact. He was seen as a role model whose kindness touched many.
Passing on December 26, 2020 after an 18‑month battle with glioblastoma
He passed away in Montreal on December 26, 2020, after a tough 18-month battle with glioblastoma. Diagnosed in August 2019, he faced each challenge with courage. His family said he passed peacefully, grateful for all the support.
Messages from family, friends, and Canadian baseball institutions
His wife Isabelle and son Dawson spoke of their deep pain and love. The Canadian Baseball Hall of Fame remembered him as a gentle giant. They promised to keep his legacy alive. Baseball Canada’s André Lachance shared a story of trust and service.
Many tributes came from former teammates, Expos alumni, and TVA Sports reporters. CTV News also shared his story. The community celebrated his achievements in bringing Quebec talent to the national stage.
Service, mentorship, and the enduring impact on young athletes
His legacy is seen in clinics, school gyms, and before tryouts. He focused on mental health and the importance of mentorship. His message to young athletes was to play with heart and help others.
This farewell is filled with gratitude. The athlete became a role model by investing in youth. The Canadian baseball community continues to honor his legacy through mentorship.
Conclusion
Derek Aucoin’s life was a remarkable journey. He started as a bilingual 6’7” prospect in Lachine. Then, he briefly shone with the Montreal Expos in 1996.
He turned his struggles in the minors, surgery, and depression into a mission. As a mental health advocate, he made talking about confidence and challenges normal. This was true both on and off the field.
His second chapter was just as impactful. He co-founded The Baseball Center NYC and worked with Derek Jeter’s Turn 2 Foundation. He taught globally and became a well-known voice on TVA Sports and 98.5 FM.
He also served on the Canadian Baseball Hall of Fame Board and wrote “La Tête Haute.” This solidified his status as a Canadian icon, inspiring many with his story.
When he lost his battle with glioblastoma at 50, tributes poured in from Quebec and Canada. They celebrated a life filled with gratitude, mentorship, and community. Derek Aucoin’s legacy is not just in his sports achievements.
It’s in the confidence he gave to young athletes and the belief that sports can make better citizens. His story teaches us that character is as important as skill. Derek Aucoin’s lasting impact shows that empathy, hard work, and hope can create leaders.
His legacy lives on wherever a player picks up a ball and believes in their future.