Former Baltimore Orioles left-handed pitcher Brian Matusz, the No. 4 decide within the 2008 MLB draft who spent virtually his whole eight-year profession with the Orioles, has died. He was 37.
Matusz pitched in 279 video games for Baltimore, making 68 begins. The one different main league staff he performed for was the Chicago Cubs, making a three-inning begin on July 31, 2016.
“A staple in our clubhouse from 2009-16, Brian was beloved all through Birdland, and his ardour for baseball and our group was unmatched,” the Orioles mentioned in a press release. “He devoted his time to connecting with any fan he may, was a cherished teammate and at all times had a smile on his face.”
Our hearts are heavy tonight as we mourn the passing of former Oriole, Brian Matusz.
A staple in our clubhouse from 2009-2016, Brian was beloved all through Birdland, and his ardour for baseball and our group was unmatched. He devoted his time to connecting with any fan he… pic.twitter.com/wNN3WkO8l4
— Baltimore Orioles (@Orioles) January 8, 2025
Matusz’s dying occurred in Arizona, however no explanation for dying has but been launched.
The Phoenix police division confirmed Wednesday evening that it responded to a useless physique name at 2:45 p.m. on Monday and located Matusz. The division mentioned the incident is being dealt with as a dying investigation and the case is pending findings by a health worker.
Matusz, who ultimately turned a reliever, was most recognized for his success in opposition to Corridor of Famer David Ortiz, who went 4-for-29 (.138) with 13 strikeouts in his profession in opposition to Matusz.
He pitched within the 2012 and 2014 postseasons for the Orioles.
Baltimore traded Matusz, who had a 12.00 ERA in seven video games, to the Braves in Might 2016, and Atlanta launched him every week later. He signed with the Cubs, the place he pitched within the minors aside from the one massive league begin. His pitching profession resulted in 2019.
Matusz initially was drafted by the Los Angeles Angels within the fourth spherical in 2005, however he determined to go to the College of San Diego, the place he was named West Coast Convention Pitcher of the Yr and was a two-time finalist for the Golden Spikes Award. He completed his school profession as the college’s all-time chief in strikeouts with 396.
“Brian was top-of-the-line gamers to ever put on a Torero uniform,” San Diego coach Brock Ungricht mentioned. “His dedication to the USD group and keenness for the sport of baseball have been evident to all who knew him. Brian’s sudden passing leaves a void in our hearts, however his legacy will proceed to encourage us, each on and off the sector. We are going to eternally be pleased about his friendship and unwavering assist of San Diego baseball.”
Matusz would have been 38 on Feb. 11.
Data from The Related Press was used on this report.