Former Michigan State Baseball Standout, Matt Byars, Succumbs to Rock Climbing Accident in Colorado

The sporting community is mourning the tragic loss of Matt Byars, a former Michigan State University baseball athlete, who met with an unfortunate rock climbing accident in Colorado on Tuesday.

Described by MSU head coach Jake Boss Jr. as a player with a vibrant personality, Byars played a significant role in the Spartans’ baseball program, both within the game and in shaping the team’s camaraderie. His remarkable defensive skills and strong presence on the field distinguished him during his tenure from 2016 to 2017.

In recognition of his defensive prowess, Byars was honored with the prestigious Danny Litwhiler Defensive Player of the Year award in 2016. This followed a season where he ousted 12 runners and led the Big Ten conference in doubles, with 11 to his name. His stellar performance caught the attention of Major League Baseball scouts, leading to his selection by the Minnesota Twins in the 24th round of the 2016 draft. However, Byars made the decision to continue his journey at MSU for his senior year.

In his final season with the Spartans, Byars started as a catcher in 47 games, despite missing five due to injuries. Once again, he demonstrated his abilities as one of the conference’s best players, securing 14 doubles during the season. On the defensive side, he retained his reputation by stopping 12 base stealers, which placed him fourth in the Big Ten rankings.

Before his memorable stint at Michigan State, Byars showcased his talent at Heartland Community College in Normal, Illinois, for two seasons. His baseball journey began in Lodi, Wisconsin, where he led Lodi High School to a Division II state championship during his senior year, earning him a four-year letter in baseball. He also excelled in wrestling, further showcasing his athletic versatility.

The untimely passing of Matt Byars is a profound loss to his parents, Jeff and Christine Byars, and has left the Michigan State community in a state of deep sorrow.