Matt Kimbrel, the younger brother of nine-time MLB All-Star reliever Craig Kimbrel, has died following a motorcycle crash in Huntsville, Alabama. He was 36 years old.
According to police, Matt Kimbrel died Saturday morning after his motorcycle collided with a dump truck. The incident occurred over the weekend, with authorities investigating the circumstances surrounding the fatal crash.
Matt was a former minor league baseball player who spent three seasons in the Atlanta Braves organization after being drafted in 2012.
Matt Kimbrel’s Baseball Career
The Atlanta Braves selected Matt Kimbrel in the 31st round of the 2012 MLB Draft.
The right-handed pitcher played three seasons in the lower minor leagues. He finished his professional baseball career with a 7-6 record, a 7.04 earned run average and two saves in 43 appearances.
Although he did not reach Major League Baseball, Matt followed a similar sporting path to his older brother Craig, who went on to become one of the most recognized relief pitchers in the game.
Matt’s time in the Braves organization marked the beginning of his professional baseball career, although it ultimately remained within the minor league system.
Craig Kimbrel’s MLB Career
Craig Kimbrel, 38, has enjoyed a long career in Major League Baseball. The veteran reliever ranks fifth on MLB’s all-time saves list with 441 saves.
The 2011 National League Rookie of the Year has played for 12 teams during his 17-season major league career. He currently belongs to the Kansas City Royals and remains on the club’s 40-man roster.
Kimbrel began his major league career with the Atlanta Braves in 2010. He quickly established himself as an effective closer and earned his first All-Star selection in 2011.
Over the years, he has played for several organizations, including the Boston Red Sox, Chicago Cubs, Los Angeles Dodgers and Philadelphia Phillies.
His career has included significant achievements, including nine All-Star selections and a World Series championship with the Boston Red Sox in 2018.
Investigation Into the Fatal Crash
Police confirmed that Matt Kimbrel died after his motorcycle collided with a dump truck on Saturday morning.
Authorities are investigating the circumstances of the collision. Reuters reported that the crash occurred in Huntsville, Alabama, where the Kimbrel brothers grew up.
The death has brought attention to Matt’s former baseball career and his connection to one of Major League Baseball’s established relief pitchers.
Further details about funeral arrangements and family statements had not been included in the Reuters report.
Matt Kimbrel’s death marks a tragic loss for his family and those who knew him during his baseball career.
Craig Kimbrel’s MLB career continues with the Kansas City Royals, while the baseball community remembers his younger brother, who once pursued his own path in professional baseball.