Isaac Mattson, a former prospect of the Los Angeles Angels who was traded to the Baltimore Orioles as part of a package for Dylan Bundy, made his Major League Baseball debut for the Pittsburgh Pirates on Friday night. In his first MLB appearance since October 1, 2021, Mattson impressed by delivering two scoreless innings, striking out two batters without allowing any hits or walks.
The Pittsburgh Pirates announced that they have selected the contract of right-handed pitcher Isaac Mattson to the Major League roster, while right-handed pitcher Jake Woodford has been designated for assignment. Mattson expressed his happiness with his performance, stating that it felt good to be back competing at the highest level and that his preparation paid off.
Hailing from Harborcreek in Erie County, Mattson played college baseball at Pitt before being drafted by the Angels in the 19th round of the 2017 MLB Draft. Despite facing challenges on and off the field after making just four appearances for the Orioles in 2021, Mattson’s perseverance and dedication to the game have finally paid off with his return to the big leagues.
Manager Derek Shelton praised Mattson for his resilience and determination to overcome obstacles to reach the pinnacle of baseball competition. Shelton highlighted Mattson’s ability to come through in clutch situations and contribute positively to the team’s success.
As the 2024 season comes to a close, Mattson has proven himself worthy of more opportunities in the majors, showcasing his talent and passion for the game. Reflecting on his journey back to the top level of baseball, Mattson expressed gratitude for the chance to compete against top MLB hitters and emphasized the importance of enjoying the game and cherishing every moment on the field.
On the other hand, Dylan Bundy, who was traded by the Angels to the Orioles in exchange for Mattson, had a mixed career trajectory following the trade. Bundy had successful seasons with the Angels before struggling with injuries and inconsistency. After brief stints with the Minnesota Twins and the New York Mets’ Triple-A affiliate, Bundy was released with a high ERA and has not pitched since.
In conclusion, Isaac Mattson’s MLB debut with the Pittsburgh Pirates marks a significant milestone in his baseball career, highlighting his resilience, dedication, and passion for the game. Despite facing setbacks and challenges, Mattson’s journey back to the big leagues serves as an inspiration to aspiring players and a reminder of the rewards that come with hard work and perseverance in pursuit of one’s dreams.
