Former MLB infielder Sean Burroughs tragically passed away due to fentanyl intoxication while inside his vehicle at a California baseball field in May, as confirmed by the Los Angeles County medical examiner. The medical examiner categorized Burroughs’ death as an accident.
On May 9, Burroughs was discovered unconscious near his car shortly after dropping off his son, Knox, for a Little League baseball game, according to Long Beach Little League President Doug Wittman. Despite attempts to revive him, Burroughs could not be saved.
Burroughs, who was 43 years old at the time of his passing, was the son of former Major League outfielder Jeff Burroughs. He gained recognition as the star player of the Long Beach Little League team in 1992 and 1993. The team secured victories in the Little League World Series during both years, with the 1992 win being controversial due to the opposing team’s use of over-aged players. In 1993, Burroughs pitched consecutive no-hitters to help his team secure back-to-back titles.
The San Diego Padres drafted Burroughs with the No. 9 overall pick in the 1998 MLB Draft. He quickly rose to prominence as a power hitter in the Padres’ minor league system, earning the title of MVP at the MLB All-Star Futures Games. Additionally, he played a pivotal role in Team USA’s gold medal triumph at the 2000 Olympics.
Burroughs spent four seasons with the Padres from 2002 to 2005 before being traded to the Tampa Bay Rays. He also had stints with the Arizona Diamondbacks and Minnesota Twins until 2012. In 2023, he joined the Los Angeles Dodgers’ organization and later played in the Atlantic League of Professional Baseball for the Bridgeport Bluefish and Long Island Ducks.
In a candid interview with ESPN in 2011, Burroughs opened up about his struggles with substance abuse, stating, “I just didn’t have the drive or the passion.” He admitted feeling physically and mentally drained, lacking the motivation to continue playing the game he loved.
The tragic loss of Sean Burroughs serves as a reminder of the impact of substance abuse and the importance of seeking help for those battling addiction. His legacy as a talented athlete and his contributions to the world of baseball will not be forgotten.