On Sunday, July 28, 2024, Doug Creek, ex-pitcher for Major League Baseball (MLB) known for his nine-season career, succumbed to cancer at the age of 55. His passing was announced by media outlets in his native Martinsburg, West Virginia.
From 1995 to 2005, Creek’s MLB career saw him pitch for seven different teams, namely the St. Louis Cardinals, San Francisco Giants, Chicago Cubs, Tampa Bay Devil Rays, Seattle Mariners, Toronto Blue Jays, and Detroit Tigers. As a left-handed pitcher, he recorded a win-loss ratio of 7-14 and maintained an earned run average (ERA) of 5.32 across his 279 career games.
His high school coach, Vic Holmes, was taken aback by the news of Creek’s demise. “It’s shocking,” he told the Journal News.
Creek started his baseball journey in Martinsburg, earning the title of state baseball player of the year in 1987 by the West Virginia Sports Writers Association. He furthered his career at Georgia Tech, securing over 40 victories and becoming the school’s most successful left-handed pitcher. His exceptional performance led to his induction into the Georgia Tech Hall of Fame in 2000.
He was selected by the St. Louis Cardinals in the seventh round of the 1991 MLB Draft, making his major league debut in 1995. Creek was primarily a reliever, but he also started three games for the Giants in 1997, one of which was a significant game against the Oakland A’s where he struck out Mark McGwire twice. McGwire later noted that Creek had pitched effectively and his performance wasn’t solely about facing one batter. Creek deserved recognition for his efforts, he said.
Creek also had a stint with the Hanshin Tigers in Japan’s Central League in 1998, where he achieved a 9-1 record before returning to pitch for the Cubs in the U.S. His career was marked by playing under notable managers like Lou Piniella and Dusty Baker. Reflecting on his time with Piniella, Creek said that Piniella inspired players to give their all, not through intimidation, but through motivation to perform well. He expressed similar sentiments about Dusty Baker.
Upon retiring from baseball, Creek embarked on a new journey as a charter boat captain and a competitive fisherman. He continued to contribute to the sport by running a baseball academy to help young athletes hone their skills.
A high school teammate, Scott Bullett, had warm memories of Creek. “He was a good guy,” Bullett said. “It’s sad to see a guy like Dougie go so soon.”
Creek’s legacy in the baseball world continues to be remembered through his noteworthy contributions both on and off the field. His commitment, talent, and character have left a lasting impact on those who knew him personally and watched him play.
