pitcher Tyler Skaggs died Monday at the age of 27, devastating many in the baseball world, including Rockies all-star third baseman , who knew Skaggs when they were teenagers in Southern California.
“I knew Tyler well,” Arenado said. “He was a great teammate and good player. I loved playing with him.”
In 2008, Skaggs and Arenado were teammates on the Brewers Elite team, part of Area Code Baseball in Southern California which showcases the best high school baseball players in the country. Arenado grew up in Lake Forest in Orange County, Calif., while Skaggs was born in Woodland Hills and went to high school in Santa Monica.
Skaggs’ mother, Debbie, was the longtime softball coach at Santa Monica High School. “she famously provided postgame tips on his pitching mechanics, even deep into his big-league career.”
“Tyler’s family was always so sweet to me and his mom was amazing toward me,” Arenado said. “She was always pulling for everyone. I’m hurting for her and the family.”
RELATED: Tyler Skaggs dies: Los Angeles Angels pitcher was 27
Skaggs died Monday afternoon in Texas at the team hotel, hours before the team was scheduled to begin a four-game series against the Rangers. The Southlake (Texas) Police Department said they were called to the team hotel Monday afternoon and found Skaggs “unresponsive” in his room. The department said no foul play is suspected and the investigation is ongoing.
Monday night’s game between the Angels and Rangers was postponed.
“It is with great sorrow that we report Tyler Skaggs passed away earlier today in Texas,” a statement from the Angels said. “Tyler has, and always will be, an important part of the Angels Family. Our thoughts and prayers are with his entire family during this devastating time.”
Truly cannot believe this is real. Thoughts and prayers with his family, the Angels and all my former teammates.
— Chris Iannetta (@Chris_Iannetta)
The Colorado Rockies are deeply saddened by the tragic loss of Tyler Skaggs. Our thoughts, prayers and condolences are with Tyler’s family, friends, fans, and the Angels organization.
— Colorado Rockies (@Rockies)
