Steven Matz Finds Spiritual Anchor on Path Back to World Series
The Rays pitcher credits his faith and family, including his touring musician wife, for guiding him through career challenges to baseball's pinnacle.
Tampa Bay Rays pitcher Steven Matz is returning to the World Series, a journey he attributes in large part to his Christian faith and the support of his family, including his wife, Taylor Cain Matz, a member of the contemporary Christian music group CAIN.
Matz, a left-handed reliever, described the current situation as "unique" but "pretty cool" as his wife and her siblings, Madison and Logan, are touring the country with CAIN, performing for thousands of people. This often means their children are staying up late to attend games before traveling on the tour bus.
The pitcher's return to the Fall Classic marks his first appearance in the World Series since his rookie year in 2015. Matz became religious around 2011, a period that coincided with a challenging two-year recovery from Tommy John surgery, which significantly impacted his early career trajectory.
Matz and Cain Matz have been married for nearly ten years. Her involvement with CAIN allows her to pursue her dream of performing, while Matz navigates his demanding professional baseball schedule. The World Series is set to begin Friday night in Milwaukee, with the Rays facing the Brewers.