Above photo credit: Raj Das, ED Photography

Eight Firebirds heard their names called in the 2024 MLB Draft, a bunch including the Birds' heart and soul the past two summers and the player they called their captain, Sean Matson.

Despite being quite the athlete himself, Sean is far from the only one in the Matson family. His father, Brian, was a baseball player at Delaware from 1990-92, while his mother, Jill, played softball at Yale from 1988-92. The athletic gene wasn't just passed down to Sean, either; his big sister, Erin, won four national titles as a student-athlete with North Carolina's field hockey program ('18', '19, '20, '22) and secured another in her first year coaching the program in 2023.

The Matson's rich athletic history helped lay the foundation of what it means to be a professional, a blueprint Sean has followed to a tee.

"They have all shown me what it means to work hard and sacrifice whatever it takes to be the best," Matson said.

"My sister led by example, and my parents did the same with all they have been able to do for me. I am forever grateful and fortunate to have my parents and sister by my side."

When he got the call that he had dreamed of receiving his whole life, his family was by his side, as they had been from the beginning.

"It's a moment I will remember forever. My parents have sacrificed so much to support me my entire life. Endless amounts of driving and staying in hotels so that I could play baseball year-round and train," Matson said.

"But the true reason I will remember it forever is seeing how happy it made them. I’ll never forget those hugs between us and my girlfriend. Truly a special moment."

Selected as both Cape Cod Baseball League Reliever of the Year and an All-Star in 2023, it was clear that Matson had the talent to play pro ball. However, it was his actions off the mound that stood out most to his peers.

Cole "Cookie" Cook, who predominantly works with the Firebirds bullpen, quickly formed a close relationship with Matson over two years working together — a bond Cook attributes to Matson's character.

"Sean Matson is a very special, wonderful person, who loves learning," Cook said. "He doesn't just love learning, he is interested in it, and invited me to be a part of his process.

"These are rare qualities. It means a lot that someone can be that talented, and still be a gold star person."

In his plethora of baseball experience, Cook has had the chance to play with many great players, none of whom have stuck with him as Francisco Lindor has. Like Matson, Lindor was one of a kind.

After being selected eighth overall in the 2011 MLB Draft, Cook recalls Lindor entering the clubhouse and checking in with every one of his teammates — an act he maintained throughout the season.

Thirteen years later, Cook feels the Firebirds had their own Francisco Lindor in Matson.

"On the last day, Franky [Lindor] was going around, checking in and asking us how we were doing. What he is wasn't made up, he wasn't faking that," Cook said.

"That combination of talent and humanity is deeply important, and when you can find it — Derek Jeter, Franky Lindor, Sean Matson — it's incredible, and people respond to it."

Cook isn't the only member of the Orleans staff to hold Matson in such high regard, as Firebirds manager Kelly Nicholson puts him among the best of the best during his 23-year tenure with the organization.

"Sean Matson is on my Mount Rushmore of players since I've been here in 2001," Nicholson said. "He's going to be a perfect fit on the Guardians."

While excited for his new chapter in Cleveland, Orleans will always hold a special place in Matson's heart, as he has made countless memories, both on and off the field, that he will cherish forever.

"There are so many moments I'll never forget," Matson said.

"Making it to the championship last year and playing in front of 7,000 people, mini golf with the guys, Skip’s speeches, the beach on off days, they're all memories I'll have forever."

As he makes his way to the Majors, the lifelong Firebird is ready to be a reflection of Nicholson's values.

"Anyone that plays for Skip knows they want to be a competitive, hard-working, respectful, grateful teammate and friend," Matson said. "That's what I plan on bringing to wherever I go in the Guardians organization."

When it comes to legacy, it's not about the strikeouts or accomplishments for Matson, as he values character more than any accolade. Sean Matson hopes to be remembered for the person he always strived to be.

"I hope my teammates remember a close friend, my coaches remember a competitor, and everyone else remembers someone who felt like Orleans was the best place in the world."

Best of luck, captain, wherever your journey takes you.

With love,

Orleans.