Erik Goeddel (born March 20, 1988) is an American former professional baseball pitcher. He appeared in Major League Baseball (MLB) for the Los Angeles Dodgers and the Miami Marlins between 2014 and 2015.
Early life and education
Goeddel was born in San Mateo, California. He attended the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA), where he played college baseball for the UCLA Bruins as a relief pitcher. During his collegiate career, he was noted for his fastball velocity and left‑handed delivery.
Professional career
Chicago Cubs (2011–2012)
The Chicago Cubs selected Goeddel in the 12th round of the 2011 MLB Draft. He began his professional career in the Cubs’ minor‑league system, pitching for the Arizona League Cubs and the Boise Hawks. In 2012, he advanced to the Peoria Chiefs (Class A) and the Tennessee Smokies (Double‑A).
Los Angeles Dodgers (2012–2015)
On July 31 2012, the Dodgers acquired Goeddel from the Cubs in a trade that sent outfielder Matt Kemp to Chicago. He continued to develop in the Dodgers’ farm system, posting strong numbers with the Chattanooga Lookouts (Double‑A) and the Albuquerque Isotopes (Triple‑A). Goeddel made his MLB debut on June 27 2014 against the Colorado Rockies, pitching one inning of relief without allowing a run. He appeared in 10 games for Los Angeles that season, recording a 2.08 earned run average (ERA). In 2015, after beginning the season with the Isotopes, he was designated for assignment by the Dodgers in July.
Miami Marlins (2015)
The Marlins claimed Goeddel off waivers on July 30 2015. He pitched in six games for Miami, posting a 5.40 ERA. The Marlins released him in September 2015.
Later career and retirement
Following his release, Goeddel signed a minor‑league contract with the San Diego Padres organization in early 2016 but did not appear in an MLB game thereafter. He announced his retirement from professional baseball in 2017.
Playing style
Goeddel was a left‑handed relief pitcher who primarily threw a fastball in the low‑90 mph range, complemented by a slider and occasional changeup. His role was typically as a middle reliever or situational left‑hander.
Personal life
Erik Goeddel is the son of former professional baseball player and coach Jeff Goeddel. He has a brother, Kevin Goeddel, who also pursued a career in baseball at the collegiate level. After retiring from baseball, Goeddel has been involved in business ventures and community outreach programs in the Bay Area.
References
- MLB.com player profile: Erik Goeddel.
- Baseball‑Reference.com statistics for Erik Goeddel.
- “Dodgers acquire pitcher Erik Goeddel from Cubs.” Los Angeles Times, August 1 2012.
External links
- Erik Goeddel’s MLB statistics at Baseball‑Reference.com.
This entry summarizes verified information from publicly available sports records and reputable news sources.