Brian Matusz, the former fourth overall selection in the 2008 MLB Draft, sadly passed away at the age of 37 at his home in Phoenix, Arizona on Monday.
Phoenix Police Sgt. Phil Krynsky issued a statement to NBC News, saying, “I can confirm we responded to a dead body call at a home near 44th Street and Campbell Avenue” around 2:45 PM MST on Monday. “The deceased person found was indeed 37-year-old Brian Matusz. Currently, this incident is being handled as a death investigation.”
On Tuesday night, the Baltimore Orioles announced the death of former pitcher Brian Matusz, a beloved figure both on and off the field.
The Orioles released a heartfelt statement honoring Matusz’s legacy: https://t.co/t6ck453kse pic.twitter.com/DowOTF91Tj
— WBAL NewsRadio 1090 and FM 101.5 (@wbalradio) January 8, 2025
Matusz is particularly remembered for his time with the Baltimore Orioles from 2009 to 2016, where he served as both a starter and a reliever. Following the announcement of his passing, the organization shared a heartfelt message.
“Our hearts are heavy tonight as we mourn the passing of former Oriole, Brian Matusz,” the organization posted on X. “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.”
Former Baltimore Orioles pitcher Brian Matusz has passed away. He was 37 years old. “A staple in our clubhouse from 2009-16, Brian was beloved throughout Birdland, and his passion for baseball and our community was unmatched,” the Orioles said in a statement. “He dedicated his… pic.twitter.com/X3K63nq5AM
— Bubba The Love Sponge®️ (@TheBubbaArmy) January 8, 2025
In the course of his career, Matusz participated in 280 games, recording a 4.92 ERA, 462 strikeouts, and a total of 27 wins.
In 2010, Matusz achieved a career-high with 10 wins across 32 starts before successfully transitioning into a reliable relief pitcher, where he appeared in 186 games out of the bullpen from 2013 to 2015.
Former Orioles All-Star outfielder Adam Jones shared a tribute honoring his former teammate.
“RIP to a good friend and teammate. We had some amazing times on and off the field. Rest easy my friend. Wow.”
Wow. Just wow. RIP to a good friend and teammate. We had some amazing times on and off the field. Rest easy my friend. Wow. pic.twitter.com/3Z0sg0KUZC
— 10 (@SimplyAJ10) January 8, 2025
Brock Ungricht, Matusz’s college baseball coach, also spoke fondly of him, mentioning that his influence extended beyond the field.
“His dedication to the USD community and passion for the game of baseball were evident to all who knew him,” said the head coach at the University of San Diego. “Brian’s unexpected passing leaves a void in our hearts, but his legacy will continue to inspire us, both on and off the field. We will forever be grateful for his friendship and unwavering support of San Diego baseball. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family.”
The Hall of Fame remembers Orioles and Cubs pitcher Brian Matusz, who passed away Tuesday at the age of 37. pic.twitter.com/guDBbGKcFE
— National Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum ⚾ (@baseballhall) January 8, 2025
