Brian Matusz, a former fourth overall selection in the 2008 MLB Draft, sadly passed away at the age of 37 in his residence in Phoenix, Arizona on Monday.
Phoenix Police Sgt. Phil Krynsky shared details with NBC News.
“I can confirm we responded to a report of a deceased individual at a residence near 44th Street and Campbell Avenue” around 2:45 pm MST on Monday.
“The individual discovered was 37-year-old Brian Matusz. This case is currently being treated as a death investigation.”
On Tuesday night, the Baltimore Orioles announced the death of former pitcher Brian Matusz, who was cherished both on and off the field.
The Orioles released a poignant statement commemorating Matusz’s impact: https://t.co/t6ck453kse pic.twitter.com/DowOTF91Tj
— WBAL NewsRadio 1090 and FM 101.5 (@wbalradio) January 8, 2025
Matusz made his mark with the Baltimore Orioles from 2009 to 2016, serving as both a starting pitcher and a reliever.
In response to the news, the organization released a heartfelt tribute.
“Our hearts are heavy tonight as we mourn the passing of former Oriole, Brian Matusz,” the team shared on X. “A beloved member of our clubhouse from 2009-2016, Brian was adored throughout Birdland. His passion for baseball and our community was unparalleled. He devoted his time to connecting with fans, was a treasured teammate, and always wore a smile. Our thoughts and prayers are with Brian’s family and loved ones during this trying 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
Throughout his professional career, Matusz made appearances in 280 games, posting a 4.92 ERA, with 462 strikeouts and 27 wins.
In 2010, he achieved a career-high of 10 wins over 32 starts. He later transitioned to a reliable relief pitcher, making 186 appearances out of the Orioles’ bullpen from 2013 to 2015.
Former Orioles All-Star outfielder Adam Jones paid tribute to 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, spoke about the kind of individual he was, emphasizing that his influence extended beyond his performance on the field.
“His commitment to the USD community and enthusiasm for the game were obvious to everyone who knew him,” remarked the head coach of the University of San Diego. “Brian’s unexpected passing creates a void in our hearts, but his legacy will motivate us, both on and off the field. We will always be thankful for his friendship and steadfast support of San Diego baseball. Our 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
Image Source: Competition Duniya With AMAN @ YouTube
