Sean Burroughs, a former MLB player and Little League star, passed away at the age of 43 due to fentanyl intoxication. Burroughs’ death marks a tragic end to a life that was celebrated for its remarkable achievements in youth and professional baseball, but also marked by struggles with substance abuse.
Burroughs first gained national attention as a standout player in the Little League World Series (LLWS). He led the Long Beach team to back-to-back LLWS championships in 1992 and 1993, becoming the first U.S. team to achieve this feat. In 1993, Burroughs pitched consecutive no-hitters, a performance that earned him national acclaim and solidified his status as a young baseball prodigy
Following his LLWS success, Burroughs continued to excel in baseball. He was drafted ninth overall by the San Diego Padres in the 1998 MLB Draft. Burroughs played seven seasons in the major leagues, including stints with the Padres, Tampa Bay Rays, Arizona Diamondbacks, and Minnesota Twins. Despite showing promise, his professional career was frequently interrupted by substance abuse issues, which ultimately limited his impact in the MLB.
In addition to his MLB career, Burroughs represented the United States at the 2000 Sydney Olympics, where he won a gold medal with the U.S. baseball team. This achievement further highlighted his talent and potential, adding to his legacy in American baseball
Tragically, Burroughs’ later life was marked by his ongoing battle with substance abuse. His struggles were well-documented and ultimately contributed to the premature end of his life. Burroughs was found unconscious next to his car in the parking lot at Stearns Champions Park in Long Beach, California, after dropping off his six-year-old son for a Little League game. Despite immediate efforts to revive him, he was pronounced dead at the scene
Burroughs’ death was confirmed by Long Beach Little League President Doug Wittman and his mother, Debbie, who stated that he died of cardiac arrest. Further reports revealed that fentanyl intoxication was the cause of his death, underscoring the devastating impact of the opioid crisis that has claimed many lives across the United States
In the wake of his passing, tributes poured in from the baseball community. Former teams and colleagues expressed their condolences and remembered Burroughs for his contributions to the sport. The San Diego Padres, in particular, mourned the loss of their former third baseman, highlighting his impact both on and off the field. The Diamondbacks also paid tribute to Burroughs, recalling his time with the team and his popularity among teammates and fans
Burroughs’ story is a poignant reminder of the highs and lows that can accompany a life in professional sports. His early successes and talent were undeniable, but his struggles with addiction ultimately overshadowed his achievements. His death is a significant loss to the baseball community and serves as a stark illustration of the dangers of substance abuse.
Sean Burroughs is survived by his son, Knox, his mother, Debbie, and his father, Jeff Burroughs, who was an MLB player and the 1974 American League MVP. The Burroughs family, along with the Long Beach baseball community, continues to mourn his passing and remember the positive impact he had on many lives, both as a player and as a coach
