Former Baltimore Orioles pitcher Brian Matusz has passed away at the age of 37, the team announced on Tuesday. Matusz, a former first-round draft pick, played for the Orioles from 2009 to 2016. In a heartfelt social media post, the team remembered Matusz as “a cornerstone of our clubhouse” and lauded his unwavering passion for baseball and his dedication to the Baltimore community.

“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 five innings. Matusz pitched in 280 regular season games throughout his career, starting in 69 of them.

He pitched for two Orioles’ Postseason teams (2012 and 2014), making seven total Postseason appearances out of the bullpen. He made his last Major League appearance with the Cubs in 2016. He was 37 years old.”

 

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, a former Major League Baseball pitcher, was born on February 11, 1987, in Grand Junction, Colorado. A left-handed pitcher with a promising arm, Matusz rose to prominence as a standout player at the University of San Diego, where he earned national recognition for his talent. His collegiate success led to him being selected by the Baltimore Orioles as the fourth overall pick in the first round of the 2008 MLB Draft.

The pitcher made his major league debut on August 4, 2009, at just 22 years old. Over the next eight seasons, he became a familiar face in the Orioles’ clubhouse. Known for his sharp slider and competitiveness on the mound, he contributed both as a starter and a reliever. His best season came in 2013, when he transitioned to a bullpen role, excelling as a situational lefty and helping the Orioles clinch a playoff berth.

 

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

After being traded by the Orioles in 2016 and swiftly released by the Atlanta Braves, Brian Matusz had a brief stint with the Chicago Cubs later that year. His final MLB appearance came on July 31, 2016, when he made a start for the Cubs. Despite his short time with the team, Matusz qualified to receive a World Series championship ring when the Cubs ended their historic season as champions.

Beyond the field, Matusz was admired for his commitment to the Baltimore community. He frequently participated in charity events and youth programs, using his platform to inspire the next generation of players.

Rest In Peace.