Tyler Skaggs Wrongful Death Trial: Family Testifies Against Angels

The family of late MLB pitcher Tyler Skaggs is seeking accountability. Their wrongful death lawsuit against the Los Angeles Angels organization is now in court. Emotional testimonies from his mother and wife highlighted the trial’s first day.

FILE – Los Angeles Angels’ Mike Trout stands on the field before a baseball game against the Houston Astros, Sept. 27, 2025, in Anaheim, Calif. (AP Photo/Jae C. Hong, File)

This case questions the duty of care professional sports teams owe their players. It centers on whether the Angels should have known about the illegal drug activity that led to Skaggs’ death.

A Tragic Death and Its Aftermath

Tyler Skaggs died in July 2019. He was 27 years old. The incident occurred in a Texas hotel room during a team road trip.

His death was ruled an accident. A toxicology report found a lethal mix of fentanyl, oxycodone, and alcohol in his system. According to Reuters, the pills were provided by a team employee.

That employee, Eric Kay, was the Angels’ communications director. He was convicted of distributing the fentanyl-laced pills. Kay is now serving a 22-year federal prison sentence.

Family Testimony Reveals a Known Struggle

Skaggs’ mother, Debbie Hetman, gave powerful testimony. She stated her son struggled with an addiction to pain medication years before his death. She said she informed his agents and surgeon about this history.

Hetman claimed the Angels never inquired about his addiction. She said she would have shared everything if asked. This lack of communication is a key part of the family’s argument.

They believe the organization is responsible. The lawsuit argues the team failed to provide a safe environment.

A Widow’s Perspective on His Sobriety

Carli Skaggs, the pitcher’s wife, also testified. She said she believed her husband had overcome his addiction. She knew they had used recreational drugs like marijuana together.

Under cross-examination, she acknowledged his past struggles. She stated she would have pushed for help if he had confided in her. Her testimony, covered by The Athletic, painted a complex picture of their life.

Angels’ lawyers focused on what the family knew. They suggested the team was unaware of the specific dangers Skaggs faced.

Broader Implications for Major League Baseball

This trial has significant implications for professional sports. It forces a examination of team responsibility for player well-being off the field. The outcome could change how organizations monitor their staff and athletes.

The case highlights the ongoing opioid crisis. It shows how it can affect anyone, even professional athletes. This tragedy has already spurred MLB to review its drug policies.

For the Skaggs family, the goal is clear. They want to ensure no other family endures a similar loss. Their pursuit of justice continues in the courtroom.

The wrongful death lawsuit against the Angels underscores a critical need for systemic change in professional sports. The Tyler Skaggs tragedy serves as a somber reminder of the hidden battles many face. This case could redefine organizational accountability for player safety.

Thought you’d like to know

What was Tyler Skaggs’ cause of death?

He died from choking on his vomit after ingesting a mix of alcohol, fentanyl, and oxycodone. The coroner ruled it an accidental overdose. The drugs were found to be laced with fentanyl.

Who was convicted for providing the drugs?

Eric Kay, the Angels’ former communications director, was convicted. He was found guilty of distributing fentanyl-laced pills to Skaggs. Kay received a 22-year federal prison sentence.

What is the family suing the Angels for?

The family filed a wrongful death lawsuit. They argue the team is liable for not providing a safe environment. They claim the Angels should have known about the drug activity.

How has MLB responded to his death?

Major League Baseball has strengthened its drug policies. The league now conducts more frequent and comprehensive testing. Education programs about opioid dangers have also been expanded.

What is the Angels’ defense in the lawsuit?

The team’s lawyers argue they could not have foreseen Kay’s actions. They state the team had no knowledge of Skaggs’ drug use. The defense suggests the responsibility was primarily with Kay and Skaggs.