Tragic Drowning of Former Iowa Baseball Star Dakota Freese

Former Iowa Baseball Star’s Untimely Death

Dakota Freese, a former high school baseball standout and recent professional pitcher, drowned in the Cedar River on Monday afternoon at the age of 33. Freese, a Cedar Rapids native, was reportedly fishing when he entered the water to retrieve belongings that had fallen in. Tragically, he was unable to return to safety despite the swift response from local rescue teams.

Details of the Incident

According to reports from KGAN CBS 2 Iowa, witnesses observed Freese entering the river near Cedar Rapids, where items he was using while fishing fell into the water. In an effort to recover them, Freese waded into the river but was subsequently pulled under. Rescuers from the Cedar Rapids Fire Department and the Johnson County Metro Dive Team conducted searches and found his body hours later near the spot where he was last seen.

Authorities have not yet released further details regarding the incident.

Dakota Freese’s Baseball Career

Freese’s baseball career was marked by significant achievements both at the high school and professional levels. He was drafted twice by Major League Baseball teams, first in 2011 by the Chicago White Sox in the 34th round after a standout high school career at Cedar Rapids Washington High School. Later, he was selected again in the 12th round of the 2013 MLB draft by the Oakland Athletics after a successful tenure at Des Moines Area Community College.

During his time at Cedar Rapids Washington High School, he showcased impressive performance. Freese pitched alongside future Major Leaguer AJ Puk, finishing his sophomore year with an 11-2 record and 106 strikeouts. In his junior season, he became a two-way player, achieving a 6-3 record with a batting average of .301 and contributing significantly both on the mound and at the plate .

Freese played a total of seven seasons in various minor and independent leagues, concluding his most recent season with the Lexington Legends in the Atlantic League, a partner league of MLB. Over his career, he secured 15 wins, recorded 436 strikeouts, and completed three games, marking a notable presence in the sport.

Community in Mourning

The news of Dakota Freese’s tragic death has sent shockwaves through the Cedar Rapids community and the world of baseball. Friends, family, and fans are expressing their condolences, reflecting on both his athletic talent and the impact he made during his life.

As the community mourns the loss of a beloved athlete, many will remember Dakota Freese not only for his accomplishments on the field but also for the passion and dedication he brought to the sport.