Keough made his MLB debut on September 3, 1977, with the Oakland Athletics. He quickly established himself as a key pitcher for the Athletics, becoming part of their starting rotation. His early career was marked by a notable performance in the 1980 season when he was named an All-Star. That year, Keough was instrumental in leading the Athletics to a surprising season, which earned him a spot in the All-Star Game and saw him finish fifth in the American League Cy Young Award voting. He was also awarded the American League Comeback Player of the Year in 1980, highlighting his resilience and ability to overcome challenges.
Throughout his career, Keough was known for his sinkerball, a pitch that resulted in a high number of ground balls, making him a valuable asset to his team's defense. Despite his early success, Keough's career was also marked by inconsistency and injuries. These challenges affected his performance and led to fluctuations in his playing time and effectiveness on the mound.
After his tenure with the Oakland Athletics, Keough went on to play for several other teams in MLB, including the New York Yankees, St. Louis Cardinals, Chicago Cubs, and Houston Astros. His time with these teams was characterized by a mix of starting and relief pitching roles. Despite showing flashes of his early career form, Keough struggled to maintain consistent performance levels during these later stages of his career.
In addition to his MLB career, Keough also played internationally. He spent time in Japan, playing for the Hanshin Tigers in the Japanese Central League. This stint in Japan allowed him to continue his professional baseball career beyond his time in MLB.
Keough's career statistics reflect the highs and lows of his time in professional baseball. Over his MLB career, he compiled a win-loss record that underscored the challenges he faced, particularly with injuries and maintaining his early career success. Despite these challenges, Keough's contributions to the teams he played for, especially during his peak years, were significant.
After retiring from playing, Keough remained involved in baseball in various capacities, including scouting and front office roles. His legacy in the sport is marked by his resilience, his notable 1980 season, and his role in the history of the teams he played for, particularly the Oakland Athletics.
Matt Keough passed away on May 2, 2020, leaving behind a legacy in baseball that is remembered by fans and those who followed his career. His journey through the highs and lows of professional baseball showcases the challenges and triumphs that athletes can experience in their careers.
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