Brian Matusz – a former first-round draft pick and beloved member of the Baltimore Orioles organization – passed away on Tuesday at the age of 37.
Brian Matusz has died at age 37. Credit: Matthew Hazlett / Getty
The left-handed pitcher, who made 279 of his 280 MLB appearances with the Orioles, was remembered fondly by the team in a heartfelt tribute shared on social media.
“Our hearts are heavy tonight as we mourn the passing of former Oriole, Brian Matusz,” the Orioles wrote on X (formerly Twitter). “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 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.”
The cause of death has not been disclosed.
Matusz was a former first-round draft pick by the Orioles. Credit: Rob Carr / Getty
A native of Colorado, Matusz made his mark as a standout pitcher at the University of San Diego, where he earned the 2008 West Coast Conference Pitcher of the Year honor. His stellar college career led to him being selected by the Orioles as the fourth overall pick in the first round of the 2008 MLB Draft.
After less than a year in the minors, Matusz debuted in the big leagues on August 4, 2009, in a game against the Detroit Tigers. He impressed in his first outing, pitching five strong innings to secure a win.
The following season, Matusz started 32 games, a career high, and finished fifth in the American League Rookie of the Year voting.
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
In 2012, Matusz transitioned to the bullpen, a move that solidified his role as a dependable reliever. From 2013 to 2015, he appeared in at least 58 games each season, maintaining an ERA (earned run average) of 3.53 or lower. His consistent performances made him a key figure in the Orioles’ pitching staff during that period.
Matusz made his final MLB appearance with the Chicago Cubs in 2016, the same year the team won the World Series. He continued his professional career with stints in Triple-A (Reno Aces), Mexico, and the Atlantic League with the Long Island Ducks.
In addition to his playing career, Matusz shared his talents internationally. In 2022, he served as the bullpen coach for New Zealand’s team ahead of the World Baseball Classic.
Following the heartbreaking news of Matusz’s passing, tributes flooded social media, with one fan tweeting: “Wow, this is devastating news. RIP.”
“RIP Brian. Gone way too soon. Prayers to the Matusz family,” another added.
“So sad, seemed like such a good dude. May his memory be a blessing,” a third wrote, with a fourth adding: “Gut wrenching! Rest in Paradise Brian! Prayers for his family.”
Brian Matusz’s contributions to baseball extended beyond his talent on the mound. Known for his genuine connection with fans and teammates alike, he left an indelible mark on the sport and the communities he touched.
The baseball world mourns the loss of a player who was not only skilled but also deeply admired for his character and passion for the game.