Scott Spiezio, a hero of the 2002 World Series, has detailed his harrowing battle with alcoholism and drug addiction, a fight that lasted a decade and nearly cost him his life. In 2018, Spiezio, then 47, underwent an MRI for back pain, but the results revealed his liver was failing due to years of heavy drinking. Doctors gave him a 20% chance of survival and stated he needed to abstain from alcohol for six months to be eligible for a liver transplant.
Spiezio, whose father Ed was also a two-time World Series champion, grew up with immense pressure to succeed in baseball. His childhood was dedicated to baseball, with his father meticulously preparing him for every possible game scenario, including the high-pressure situation of a bases-loaded, Game 7, bottom-of-the-ninth at-bat, which Spiezio famously recreated in his mind.
This dedication paid off. Spiezio played a pivotal role in the Anaheim Angels' 2002 World Series victory, hitting a crucial three-run home run in Game 6 when the team was down 5-0. The home run sparked a comeback, leading to the Angels' historic win. However, Spiezio admits that the success led to an inflated ego, which he defines as "edging God out." Following the win, Spiezio experienced significant public attention, including appearances on late-night shows and receiving a key to his hometown.
His career took a downturn in 2005 when he suffered a severe back injury while playing for the Seattle Mariners. This injury marked the beginning of a deeper descent into substance abuse. Spiezio turned to alcohol to cope with the pain, depression, and anxiety, leading to a physical addiction. His drinking escalated to consuming nearly a handle of vodka daily, and he began using cocaine recreationally. His relationships suffered, including a strained connection with his father and a divorce from his first wife.
Despite a resurgence with the St. Louis Cardinals in 2006, where he won another World Series, Spiezio's addiction continued to worsen. He played games while intoxicated, even consuming alcohol from water bottles in the dugout. His struggles led to multiple stints in rehab, legal issues including a hit-and-run, and further professional setbacks. By 2010, he divorced his second wife and was spending significant amounts of money on cocaine and vodka.
From 2007 to 2016, Spiezio underwent 11 different rehabilitation programs. He eventually relinquished control of his finances and property to his parents to manage his affairs. At his lowest point, Spiezio experienced a period of suicidal ideation, telling police he intended to run at them so they would shoot him. He was overwhelmed by guilt for letting down his family, his community, and squandering his platform.
The turning point came in 2018 with his liver failure. Spiezio recalled praying for God to take away his cravings, and on April 6, 2018, he experienced a complete absence of desire for alcohol. He describes feeling physically ill at the sight of it. His liver miraculously began to heal, astonishing doctors who could not explain his recovery.
Following his recovery, Spiezio focused on rebuilding his life and faith. He reconnected with his father, attended church, and began sharing his story. He now runs a baseball facility, gives lessons to children, and speaks at schools about the dangers of drugs and alcohol. Despite having less wealth than during his playing days, Spiezio asserts he has found true joy and purpose in helping others and mending his relationships, particularly with his four children. He emphasizes that it is never too late to seek recovery and rebuild one's life.