Like Hertz and RiverHawks’ owner Irv Zakheim, Matthews’ playing days began in Los Angeles. After high school, Matthews went to California State University at Northridge, where Zakheim played his college baseball. Matthews redshirted his freshmen year before transferring to Pierce College – the same place where Hertz started his collegiate career. And, like Hertz, Matthews played one season at Pierce before transferring to Gonzaga.

Matthews spent three seasons playing for the Bulldogs where he split time between roles as starting pitcher, designated hitter and outfielder. During his time with Gonzaga, Matthews received two First Team All-Conference selections, was named a NCBWA Second Team All-American and Baseball America’s Third Team All-American.

After graduating from Gonzaga, Matthews took his baseball skills to the Detroit Tigers organization. Matthews played two years in the minor leagues where he earned a Florida State Pitcher of the Week Award. From there, Matthews turned his attention from playing to coaching. He returned to the community that captured his heart while he played for the Bulldogs. After coaching at Medical Lake High School, Matthews was recruited as the strength and pitching coach for the Community Colleges of Spokane.