Scott Spiezio underwent an MRI in 2018 for back pain. The results revealed a more serious issue. When Spiezio exited the MRI, he was suffering from jaundice. His liver was failing after years of alcoholism.

The former World Series champion, then 47, faced a grim prognosis with only a 20% chance to survive. Doctors told Spiezio he needed to abstain from alcohol for six months before considering a liver transplant. He doubted he could achieve this.

“I didn’t think that I’d be able to do it. I went from a guy that never drank alcohol to not knowing if I could go six months without drinking to save my life,” said Spiezio.

Scott Spiezio’s family had a history in baseball, with his father, Ed, playing in Major League Baseball and winning World Series titles. Ed believed Scott was destined for baseball from a young age. By age three, Scott was switch-hitting, aiming to reach the big leagues like his father.

Their training was intense. Drills often ended with a scenario: a 3-2 count, two outs, bases loaded, down a run in Game 7 of the World Series. This practice paid off during the 2002 World Series when Spiezio hit a pivotal home run for the Angels in Game 6, shifting the team’s momentum and leading to their victory. This moment made him a hometown hero and brought media attention.

However, after the win, Spiezio’s “ego”—meaning “edging God out”—led him astray. Offered appearances on popular shows and praised widely, Spiezio began to distance himself from his values and belief in God.

After leaving the Angels in 2003, Spiezio signed with the Seattle Mariners. A back injury at spring training changed his life, as another collision could paralyze him. This led to depression, detachment from God, and eventually to heavy drinking and cocaine use.

Spiezio’s life spiraled as he drank excessively and used drugs. His relationships frayed, including with his father and family. Despite a brief resurgence with the St. Louis Cardinals in 2006, his personal struggles persisted, affecting his performance and leading to more legal troubles.

In 2007, a moment occurred that began to mend his relationship with his father. On Opening Day, Spiezio received his World Series ring from his father, a gesture arranged by the Cardinals. This rekindled their bond, though his struggle with addiction continued for years.

In 2018, jaundice served as a wake-up call. With a mere 20% survival chance, Spiezio begged God to remove his cravings. Remarkably, his addiction ceased, and subsequent medical check-ups revealed his liver had recovered without a transplant.

Spiezio rebuilt his faith, reconnecting with family and friends. He dedicated time to repairing his relationship with his children and became active in his church. Spiezio shared his experiences to help those struggling with addiction, finding joy in assisting others in recovery.

Now living a simpler life, Spiezio runs a baseball facility, offers lessons to children, and regularly speaks about the dangers of substance abuse. Despite financial setbacks, he has found peace and purpose in offering support to others.