COLUMBUS, GA. (THECOUNT) — Matt Martin, the executive chef who helped shape the food and hospitality experience during the first two seasons of Columbus Clingstones baseball at Synovus Park, has died following a motorcycle accident. Martin died Sunday after spending several days in intensive care at a Mobile, Alabama, hospital, according to Clingstones general manager Pete Laven.
Martin served as executive chef at the ballpark, now known as Pinnacle Park, during the Clingstones’ first two seasons. The Class AA affiliate of the Atlanta Braves plays in Columbus, Georgia.
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Laven told the Ledger-Enquirer that Martin was hospitalized in Mobile for several days after the motorcycle accident before his death Sunday. His age, obituary and funeral arrangements were not available at the time of publication.
“He was just one of those guys who never met a stranger,” Laven said. “He was a talented chef, but he also was just a gregarious guy.”
Laven said Martin had two major passions outside his work: food and live music. He described Martin as someone who enjoyed going out to see live performances and connecting with people.
Martin also played an important role in developing the ballpark’s premium dining offerings, including menus for the Aflac Club and stadium suites. Laven credited him with helping elevate the overall fan experience by bringing more variety and distinctive food options to the venue.
Martin was hired by Oak View Group, the third-party concessionaire responsible for the ballpark’s food service. According to Laven, Martin made an immediate impact after joining the operation.
After leaving Columbus following the current season, Martin was working as a chef in Gulf Shores, Alabama, Laven told the newspaper.
“Everybody that knew Matt really loved him,” Laven said. “He will truly be missed.”
Martin’s death follows a motorcycle accident in the Mobile, Alabama, area. The specific crash location and circumstances were not provided in the report.
Google Maps: Mobile, Alabama (approximate area)
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