Matt Hague: The Unsung Hero of the Baseball Diamond

A Stellar Career in the Making

Matt Hague, the American former professional baseball first baseman, is renowned for his impressive stint in Major League Baseball (MLB) and Nippon Professional Baseball (NPB). As a versatile player, Hague has made a mark in the baseball world, earning recognition for his remarkable performances on the field.

The Amateur Years

Born on August 20, 1985, in Kent, Washington, Hague's passion for baseball was evident from an early age. He attended Kentwood High School in Covington, Washington, where he was an integral part of the school's baseball team. His outstanding performance earned him a spot on the Class 4A All-State First Team as a pitcher and Second Team as an outfielder.

College Baseball and the Road to Stardom

Hague's college baseball career was a testament to his dedication and perseverance. He began at the University of Washington in 2005, playing for the Washington Huskies baseball team for three seasons. Despite starting as a backup third baseman and outfielder, Hague soon made a name for himself as a relief pitcher. His impressive skills caught the attention of the Cleveland Indians, who drafted him in the 11th round (347th overall) of the 2007 MLB draft. However, Hague opted not to sign, choosing to further hone his skills in collegiate summer baseball with the Falmouth Commodores of the Cape Cod Baseball League. His exceptional performance earned him a league all-star title. In his senior season, Hague transferred to Oklahoma State University, playing for the Oklahoma State Cowboys baseball team. This strategic move proved pivotal in Hague's career, paving the way for his entry into professional baseball.

The Professional Journey

The Pittsburgh Pirates selected Hague in the ninth round (264th overall pick) of the 2008 MLB draft as a third baseman. He began his professional career with the State College Spikes of the Class A Short Season New York-Penn League, before being promoted to the Hickory Crawdads of the Class A South Atlantic League. Hague's professional journey took him to new heights, with stints in MLB with the Pittsburgh Pirates and Toronto Blue Jays, as well as in NPB with the Hanshin Tigers. His versatility and skillset made him a valuable asset to his teams.

A New Chapter: Coaching and Giving Back

In 2020, Hague embarked on a new chapter in his baseball career, joining the Toronto Blue Jays organization as an assistant hitting coach. This transition marked a shift from player to mentor, allowing Hague to share his expertise and experience with the next generation of baseball players. Through his journey, Hague has left an indelible mark on the baseball world. His dedication, perseverance, and passion for the game have inspired countless players and fans alike. As he continues to give back to the sport that has given him so much, Hague's legacy is sure to endure for generations to come.

Fun Facts and Milestones

• Hague was named to the Class 4A All-State First Team as a pitcher and Second Team as an outfielder in high school.
• He was drafted by the Cleveland Indians in 2007, but opted not to sign.
• Hague was a league all-star in the Cape Cod Baseball League in 2007.
• He played for the Falmouth Commodores in the Cape Cod Baseball League.
• Hague was drafted by the Pittsburgh Pirates in 2008.