Mat Latos

Who is Mat Latos?

Mathew Adam Latos is an American professional baseball pitcher for the Cincinnati Reds of Major League Baseball. He has pitched for Cincinnati since the 2012 season. He previously played in MLB for the San Diego Padres from 2009 through 2011.

Born in Alexandria, Virginia, Latos' family moved to Florida when he was young. He played baseball at Coconut Creek High School, where he became one of the best high school players in the state. Highly regarded for his talent before the 2006 MLB Draft, he fell to the 11th round due to questions about his maturity. After pitching at Broward College for a season, the San Diego Padres signed him for a $1.25 million bonus. He debuted for the Padres in 2009, and established himself in their starting rotation. The Reds traded four players, including three prospects, to acquire Latos before the 2011 season.

At 6 feet 6 inches, Latos throws from a high release point. He throws a four-seam fastball, a two-seam fastball, a slider, a curveball, and a changeup. He is among the best strikeout pitchers in baseball.