Scott Sauerbeck’s Cause of Death Revealed After Influenza Complications

CINCINNATI, Ohio — The cause of death for former MLB pitcher Scott Sauerbeck has been disclosed three months following his passing. Sauerbeck, a Cincinnati native, died on February 18, 2025, at the age of 53 due to complications from influenza, compounded by hypertensive heart disease.

The Florida Medical Examiner’s Office reported that the specific cause of death was “sequela of acute influenza A, including streptococcal pharyngitis.” The medical examiner classified Sauerbeck’s death as natural, confirming that no illegal substances were found in his system.

The Pittsburgh Pirates, one of Sauerbeck’s former teams, released a statement expressing their condolences. “The Pirates family mourns the passing of Scott Sauerbeck. Scott played for the Bucs from 1999 to 2003 and shares the club record for most games pitched by a left-handed pitcher in one season,” they noted.

Sauerbeck graduated from Northwest High School and attended Miami University, where he played college baseball. He was drafted by the New York Mets in 1994 but made his major league debut with the Pirates in 1999. Over his seven-season MLB career, he also played for the Boston Red Sox, Oakland Athletics, and Cleveland Guardians.

In the years following his playing career, Sauerbeck faced challenges, including a significant injury in 2004 that required surgery. He later played for several minor league teams before retiring in 2008.

Sauerbeck leaves behind his wife Stephanie, three children, and two stepchildren. His passing is a notable loss for the baseball community, and the Pirates have encouraged fans to keep his family in their thoughts during this difficult time.