Former MLB pitcher Brian Matusz has reportedly passed away.
According to Roch Kubatko of MASN, Matusz, a former pitcher for the Baltimore Orioles and Chicago Cubs died on Tuesday morning. Matusz, 37, was the fourth-overall pick by Baltimore in 2008. He would have turned 38 on February 11.
“Very sad to hear that former #orioles pitcher Brian Matusz passed away this morning. Was 37. 4th-overall pick in 2008 draft,” Kubato wrote in a tweet.
Brian Matusz played his high school baseball in Arizona before being drafted by the Orioles. The Colorado native made his Major League debut in 2009.
He began as a starter but was moved to the bullpen following some early struggles.
The left-hander eventually became a reliever for the team, playing in the role from 2013 to 2015. He ended his career with Chicago in 2016, having been traded to the Atlanta Braves before being released.
We are devastated to learn of the passing of former Major League pitcher Brian Matusz.
Matusz, the No. 4 overall pick in the 2008 MLB Draft, spent a majority of his eight seasons with the Orioles. He won his Major League debut on August 4, 2009, as he gave up just one run in… pic.twitter.com/40nxZP7KDG
— MLB (@MLB) January 8, 2025
“A staple in our clubhouse from 2009-2016, Brian was beloved throughout Birdland, and his passion for baseball and our community was unmatched,” a statement from the Orioles reads.
“He dedicated his time to connecting with any fan he could, was a cherished teammate, and always had a smile on his face. Brian’s family and loved ones are in our thoughts and prayers at this difficult time.”
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 throughout Birdland, and his passion for baseball and our community was unmatched. He dedicated his time to connecting with any fan he… pic.twitter.com/wNN3WkO8l4
— Baltimore Orioles (@Orioles) January 8, 2025
Brian Matusz Was Particularly Bright Against Davis Ortiz
Brian Matusz went 27-41 with an ERA of 4.92 in 280 appearances, 69 of them starts. He featured on two playoff teams for Baltimore – in 2012 and 2014 – and was particularly effective against Boston Red Sox legend David Ortiz.
The Hall of Famer registered just four hits in 29 at-bats against Matusz, walking just once in their matchups and striking out on 13 occasions.
Matusz last played professionally for the Long Island Ducks in Mexico in 2019.
No cause of death was given.
TPS extends condolences to Brian Matusz’s family, friends, and loved ones.
May he rest in peace.
