Jim Magnuson | Alcohol Poisoning Death

On May 30, 1991, former major league baseball player Jim Magnuson was found dead in Green Bay, Wisconsin at the age of 44. The official cause of death on Magnuson’s gravestone is listed as alcohol poisoning.

Decades before his death, Magnuson had a 3-year MLB (Major League Baseball) career as a pitcher for the Chicago White Sox and New York Yankees. Little is known about Magnuson’s personal life, particularly his life after Major League Baseball.

About Jim Magnuson

Magnuson was born James Robert Magnuson on August 18, 1946 in Marinette, Wisconsin. He attended the local Marinette High School and University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh, where he played baseball as a left-handed pitcher. 

His talent caught the attention of major league scouts, and in 1966, Magnuson signed with the Chicago White Sox organization at the age of 19.

MLB Career

Magnuson made his major league debut with the White Sox in 1970, after several years in the minor leagues. 

In 36 career games over three seasons with the White Sox and Yankees, Magnuson recorded an earned run average (ERA) of 4.50 and accumulated 40 strikeouts, while allowing 9 home runs, 113 hits, and 63 RBI (runs batted in), leading to a record of 2 wins and 7 losses. 

In 1973, Magnuson played the last game of his major league career.

Magnuson ended his brief career without an All-Star, playoff, or World Series appearance, and without Hall of Fame accolades. His tombstone states that he was a Vietnam War veteran, where he may have served after the end of his professional baseball career.

How Jim Magnuson Died

Almost two decades after his last major league appearance, Magnuson died in Green Bay, Wisconsin at the age of 44. His official cause of death is listed as alcohol poisoning, though records on the incident itself are not publicly available.

Magnuson was buried at Forest Home Cemetery in his hometown Marinette, Wisconsin. His tombstone states that “He loved the game,” referring to the game of baseball.

Jim Magnuson’s History Of Substance Abuse & Rehab

Jim Magnuson’s history of substance abuse is unknown. Few, if any, public records, interviews, or biographical information exist on his personal life. 

It is unknown whether Magnuson had a history of excessive drinking or if a single instance of alcohol poisoning led to his death, or if he ever attended drug or alcohol rehab for addiction.

Recovery Is Possible

Alcohol abuse affects people of all statuses, ages, and walks of life, but recovery is possible. If you or a loved one are addicted to alcohol, it is never too late to get help. To learn about our treatment programs for alcohol addiction, please contact us today.