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Angels Settle Wrongful Death Suit for Skaggs Family

12/22/2025

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Summary

Story summary

On December 19, 2025, the Angels and Skaggs' family settled the wrongful death suit as deliberations ended.
The family initially sought over $118 million, with jurors reportedly near a $100 million award.
Skaggs died in 2019 from a fentanyl-laced pill provided by Eric Kay, a former Angels employee serving a 22-year sentence, and the family hopes Major League Baseball accountability.

History

Historical Context

The 2025 settlement of the wrongful death suit by Tyler Skaggs' family, stemming from his 2019 overdose involving fentanyl, highlights ongoing issues of substance abuse in sports. This case echoes the 1989 death of basketball player Len Bias, which led to the Anti-Drug Abuse Act. The settlement emphasizes the need for Major League Baseball to improve player health and safety measures amid rising drug-related concerns.

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Story summary

On December 19, 2025, the Angels and Skaggs' family settled the wrongful death suit as deliberations ended.
The family initially sought over $118 million, with jurors reportedly near a $100 million award.
Skaggs died in 2019 from a fentanyl-laced pill provided by Eric Kay, a former Angels employee serving a 22-year sentence, and the family hopes Major League Baseball accountability.

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