25 Facts About Steven Matz

Who is Steven Matz?

Steven Matz is a professional baseball pitcher known for his time in Major League Baseball (MLB). His journey from a promising high school player to a major league star is filled with interesting moments and achievements. Let's dive into some fascinating facts about Steven Matz.

1. Born on May 29, 1991
   Steven Matz was born in Stony Brook, New York. Growing up in Long Island, he developed a passion for baseball early on.

2. Drafted by the New York Mets
   In 2009, the New York Mets selected Matz in the second round of the MLB Draft. This marked the beginning of his professional career.

3. Tommy John Surgery
   Matz underwent Tommy John surgery in 2010, which delayed his professional debut. Despite this setback, he made a strong comeback.

4. Minor League Debut in 2012
   After recovering from surgery, Matz debuted in the minor leagues in 2012 with the Kingsport Mets.

5. Impressive Minor League Stats
   During his time in the minors, Matz posted a 2.21 ERA and struck out 121 batters in 106.1 innings in 2014.

Major League Debut and Achievements

Steven Matz's major league debut was nothing short of spectacular. His early career in the MLB showcased his talent and potential.

6. MLB Debut on June 28, 2015
   Matz made his MLB debut with the New York Mets against the Cincinnati Reds. He pitched 7.2 innings, allowing just two runs and striking out six batters.

7. First MLB Hit
   In his debut game, Matz also impressed at the plate, going 3-for-3 with four RBIs. This made him the first pitcher in MLB history to record three hits and four RBIs in his debut.

8. 2015 World Series Appearance
   Matz played a crucial role in helping the Mets reach the 2015 World Series. He started Game 4 against the Kansas City Royals.

9. Rookie Season Success
   In his rookie season, Matz posted a 4-0 record with a 2.27 ERA, solidifying his place in the Mets' rotation.

10. Pitching Style
    Matz is known for his fastball, which averages around 94 mph, and his effective curveball and changeup.

Personal Life and Interests

Beyond the baseball diamond, Steven Matz has a rich personal life and various interests that make him a well-rounded individual.

11. Married to Taylor Cain
    Matz married Taylor Cain, a member of the country music group The Cains, in December 2017.

12. Philanthropy
    Matz is actively involved in charitable work. He founded the Tru32 program, which honors first responders and military personnel.

13. Nickname "The Southpaw"
    Due to his left-handed pitching, Matz is often referred to as "The Southpaw."

14. Love for Fishing
    In his free time, Matz enjoys fishing, a hobby he picked up during his childhood in Long Island.

15. Dog Lover
    Matz and his wife are proud dog owners. Their pets often make appearances on their social media accounts.

Career Highlights and Challenges

Steven Matz's career has seen its share of highs and lows. His resilience and determination have been key to his success.

16. Traded to the Toronto Blue Jays
    In January 2021, Matz was traded to the Toronto Blue Jays, where he continued to showcase his pitching skills.

17. Career-High Strikeouts
    On August 28, 2021, Matz struck out a career-high 11 batters in a game against the Detroit Tigers.

18. Injury Struggles
    Throughout his career, Matz has faced several injuries, including elbow and shoulder issues. Despite these challenges, he has consistently bounced back.

19. 2021 Season Performance
    In the 2021 season, Matz posted a 14-7 record with a 3.82 ERA, helping the Blue Jays in their playoff push.

20. Free Agency
    After the 2021 season, Matz became a free agent and signed a four-year contract with the St. Louis Cardinals.

Fun Facts and Trivia

Steven Matz's career and life are filled with interesting tidbits that make him a unique figure in baseball.

21. High School Star
    During his high school years at Ward Melville High School, Matz was a standout player, earning All-Long Island honors.

22. First MLB Home Run
    Matz hit his first MLB home run on July 9, 2016, against the Washington Nationals.

23. Family of Athletes
    Athleticism runs in the Matz family. His brother, Jonathan, played college baseball, and his sister, Jillian, was a college softball player.

24. Fan Favorite
    Matz's dedication and performance have made him a fan favorite in every city he's played in.

25. Community Involvement
    Matz frequently participates in community events and charity drives, making a positive impact off the field.

The Final Pitch

Steven Matz's journey from a promising high school pitcher to a Major League Baseball standout is nothing short of inspiring. His dedication, resilience, and talent have made him a key player to watch. From his impressive debut with the New York Mets to his current role with the St. Louis Cardinals, Matz has consistently shown why he's a force on the mound. His off-field contributions, like his charity work, highlight his character beyond baseball. Whether you're a die-hard fan or new to the sport, Matz's story offers a blend of athletic prowess and personal integrity. Keep an eye on this pitcher; his career is far from over, and there's no telling what heights he'll reach next. Stay tuned for more exciting moments from Steven Matz.