The first time they crossed paths, A.J. Minter wasn’t familiar with Tyler Matzek’s story.
It was late in the 2019 season at the Atlanta Braves' triple-A affiliate in Gwinnett, Ga. Minter had just been sent down from the big-league club. Matzek had recently been signed to a two-year minor-league contract, unusual for a player plucked out of independent-league ball.
What Minter immediately recognized in the fellow left-handed pitcher was talent. A hard fastball, a crisp slider, an ability to get batters out on either side of the plate.
The things Minter didn’t yet know about his teammate were far more impressive — and far more inspirational.