Former MLB Pitcher Brian Matusz Dies at 37

Former Major League Baseball pitcher Brian Matusz, a first-round draft pick and World Series champion, was found dead in a Phoenix home on Monday, police confirmed. He was 37. The cause of death has not been disclosed.

Matusz, a left-handed pitcher, was the No. 4 overall pick in the 2008 MLB draft by the Baltimore Orioles. He spent nearly his entire eight-year career with the Orioles, pitching in 279 games, including 68 starts. His best season came in 2010, when he won a career-high 10 games. Matusz later transitioned to a relief role, appearing in 186 games out of the bullpen from 2013 to 2015.

“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 time to connecting with any fan he could, was a cherished teammate, and always had a smile on his face.”

Matusz was found dead at a home near 44th Street and Campbell Avenue in Phoenix, according to Phoenix Police Sgt. Phil Krynsky. The incident is being investigated as a death, pending findings from the medical examiner.

Known for his success against Hall of Famer David Ortiz, Matusz held Ortiz to a .138 batting average with 13 strikeouts in 29 at-bats. He also pitched in the 2012 and 2014 postseasons for the Orioles. After being traded to the Atlanta Braves in 2016 and later released, Matusz signed with the Chicago Cubs, where he made one major league start before retiring in 2019. He earned a World Series ring with the Cubs that year.

Matusz was a standout at the University of San Diego, where he was named West Coast Conference Pitcher of the Year in 2008. He finished his college career as the school’s all-time leader in strikeouts with 396. “Brian was one of the best players to ever wear a Torero uniform,” said San Diego coach Brock Ungricht. “His legacy will continue to inspire us, both on and off the field.”

Former teammates, including Adam Jones, mourned his passing. “RIP to a good friend and teammate,” Jones wrote on social media. “We had some amazing times on and off the field. Rest easy, my friend.”