Former MLB Relief Pitcher Rod Beck Dies

Rod Beck, a former major league relief pitcher, died in his Phoenix home on Saturday according to the Arizona Republic website at the age of 38.

The cause of death is unknown, but police investigators are looking into it because he was alone at the time. They are not suspecting any kind of foul play.

Beck first debuted for the San Francisco Giants in 1991 and played for the organization for seven seasons. It was in San Francisco in 1993 when he recorded 48 saves which included converting 24 of them in a row.

Beck then played for the Chicago Cubs for two seasons where he had 51 saves in his first year with the team. He spent two years in Chicago before signing with the Boston Red Sox and playing there for three years. Beck then played his final two seasons with the San Diego Padres.

He struggled in 2004 during his last season with the Padres which were due in large part to personal problems in spring training. He was released in August of 2004.

Beck pitched for 13 seasons and compiled a career record of 38-45 with 286 saves and a career 3.30 ERA. He is currently ranked 21st on the all-time career saves list.

He was born and raised in California, but lived in Arizona after retiring from the game.

Beck leaves behind two daughters who were in California being told by their mother in person about their father's passing.

Sources: Arizona Republic & Phoenix(Ticker)