BALTIMORE (AP) — Former Major League Baseball pitcher Brian Matusz, known for his left-handed prowess during his eight seasons in the league, has passed away at the age of 37. Most notably associated with the Baltimore Orioles, Matusz played a pivotal role in the team’s resurgence a decade ago.
The tragic news of Matusz’s death was confirmed by both the Orioles and the University of San Diego on Tuesday evening, following communication from Matusz’s family. The cause of his passing has not been disclosed.
Expressing their grief, the Orioles stated, “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 could, was a cherished teammate, and always had a smile on his face.”
Originally drafted by the Orioles with the fourth overall pick in 2008 out of San Diego, Matusz was highly regarded as a standout player by the University of San Diego’s head coach, Brock Ungricht. Ungricht remarked, “Brian was one of the best players to ever wear a Torero uniform. His dedication to the USD community and passion for the game of baseball were evident to all who knew him. 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.”
Matusz made his major league debut in 2009 as a starting pitcher, transitioning to a bullpen role towards the latter part of the 2012 season. This shift coincided with the Orioles’ success, culminating in their first postseason appearance in 15 years by clinching a wild card spot.
During the 2014 season, Matusz delivered a solid performance for the Orioles, posting a 2-3 record with a 3.48 ERA across 63 relief appearances as the team secured the AL East division title.
Midway through the 2016 season, Baltimore traded Matusz to the Atlanta Braves, eventually leading him to join the Chicago Cubs. His final appearance in the majors came in 2016 when he made a single start for the Cubs.
Brian Matusz’s unexpected passing has left a profound impact on the baseball community, with tributes pouring in from fans, teammates, and organizations that he touched throughout his career. His legacy as a dedicated player and a valued member of the teams he represented will continue to inspire future generations of athletes both on and off the field.
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