Scott Spiezio’s Journey: From Baseball Glory to Battling Addiction

Scott Spiezio underwent an MRI for back pain in 2018, which led to a life-changing discovery. The World Series champion found out his liver was failing due to years of battling alcoholism. At 47, doctors gave him a 20% chance of survival. He needed to stop drinking for six months to be eligible for a liver transplant.

Spiezio expressed doubts about his ability to quit drinking despite the high stakes. He reflected on going from never drinking to struggling with the idea of going without alcohol for six months.

I didn’t think that I’d be able to do it. I went from a guy that never drank alcohol to thinking I don’t know if I can go six months without drinking to save my own life, he said.

Early Career and Legacy

Scott Spiezio’s father, Ed, was a two-time World Series champion who played Major League Baseball for nine seasons. From a young age, Scott was nurtured to follow in his father’s footsteps.

His mother, Verna, and his father, Ed, believed Scott was destined to be a ballplayer. By age three, Scott was already switch-hitting. Scott and his father tirelessly worked together, envisioning a future in the big leagues. Drills in the basement imitated game-winning scenarios in the World Series.

Professional Triumph

Scott fulfilled the family vision by winning a World Series. In 2002, during Game 6 against the San Francisco Giants, Spiezio hit a critical home run that led to the Angels’ comeback. The Angels eventually claimed their first World Series title.

The triumph brought Spiezio fame, with appearances on shows like the Tonight Show and accolades in his hometown. But this success fueled his ego, which Spiezio defines as ‘edging God out.’

Struggles Begin

In 2003, Spiezio signed with the Seattle Mariners, where a severe back injury marked the start of his difficulties. He turned to alcohol to cope with pain and depression, becoming addicted without realizing.

Spiezio’s once-praiseworthy image began to tarnish with personal issues, alcoholism, and a fading career. His relationship with his father deteriorated, coinciding with a troubled second marriage and increased substance use.

Road to Recovery

Despite numerous rehabs and meetings, Spiezio’s addiction persisted. In 2018, the seriousness of his liver condition awakened him. Doctors informed him that without alcohol abstinence, a transplant was off the table. Seeking divine intervention, he prayed for the removal of his alcohol cravings.

Amazingly, his cravings ceased, and over time, he embarked on a path to recovery. As his health improved, doctors were astonished by his liver’s normalization, attributing it to higher powers.

A New Chapter

Spiezio now focuses on a meaningful life, sharing his faith and story. He remains active with his church, talks to young athletes about the dangers of substance abuse, and repairs fractured family ties. Living modestly, he finds joy in helping others through his experiences.

Spiezio’s story has been documented in a September 10 documentary titled Spiezio and his memoir The Hardest Comeback. He sends a message of hope to those battling addiction, emphasizing that it’s never too late for change.

Life is so much better, Spiezio shared, finding true contentment in aiding others on their sobriety journeys.