TEMPE, Ariz. — Jason Conti, a former Major League outfielder and original member of the Arizona Diamondbacks organization, who has died at the age of 50 following a severe brain injury. His passing was confirmed over the weekend by both the Arizona Diamondbacks and close friends, including former teammates.
In late May, Kevin Kramer, Conti’s former teammate at the University of Pittsburgh, shared that Jason had been placed on life support and was not expected to survive. On social media, Kramer wrote, “Today I share the worst news imaginable — my friend, my Pitt teammate and @MLB @Dbacks World Series champion Jason Conti suffered a severe brain injury and is on life support. Unfortunately, he is not going to survive past the weekend. I’m devastated — as a team, we are devastated. Rest in peace, my friend.”
The Arizona Diamondbacks, who drafted him in the 32nd round of their inaugural 1996 draft class out of Pitt, recognized him as a foundational part of the franchise’s early history. He was the 25th player ever signed by the team, joining the organization two years before their MLB debut in 1998.
In a statement, the Diamondbacks expressed their deep sorrow: “We are deeply saddened by the sudden passing of former outfielder Jason Conti. Our thoughts and prayers are with Jason’s family and friends at this time.”
Conti made his MLB debut in 2001 and played five seasons across multiple teams, including the Milwaukee Brewers and Texas Rangers, as well as his original Diamondbacks. Over 182 career games, he posted a .238 batting average, with six home runs and 47 RBIs. He was known for his strong defensive presence in the outfield, work ethic, and team-first mentality.
Beyond the game, Conti’s life took a creative and grounded turn. After retiring from professional baseball, he pursued a second career as a chef, building a name for himself in the culinary world. Most recently, he was working at Craftsman Cocktails and Kitchen in Tempe, Arizona, where he was admired by colleagues and patrons alike for his passion and dedication.
In an emotional tribute, Kramer also mentioned that Pearl Jam, Conti’s favorite band, would be performing in Pittsburgh on what became the final night of his life — a poignant coincidence not lost on those close to him. “Pearl Jam is playing in Pittsburgh tomorrow night for you on your last night,” he wrote. “My thoughts are with the entire Conti family.”
He is survived by family, friends, teammates, and fans who will remember him not just for the games he played, but for the man he was.
May he rest in peace.