Former fourth overall pick in the 2008 MLB Draft, Brian Matusz, tragically passed away at 37 years old in his Phoenix, Arizona home on Monday.
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Phoenix Police Sgt. Phil Krynsky provided a statement to NBC News.
"I can confirm we responded to a dead body call at a home near 44th Street and Campbell Avenue" at about 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
Notably, Matusz played with the Batltimore Orioles from 2009-2016, as both a starting pitcher and reliever.
The organization released a heartfelt message following the news.
"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
Throughout his career, Matusz appeared in 280 games, contributing a 4.92 ERA, 462 strikeouts, and 27 wins.
To note, in 2010, Matusz won a career-high 10 games in 32 starts. And then he made the transition into becoming a solid relief pitcher, from 2013-2015 he appeared in 186 games out of the Baltimore's bullpen.
Former Orioles All-Star outfielder Adam Jones gave a tribute statement to his one-time 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
Matusz's college baseball coach, Brock Ungricht, also spoke on what kind of person he was, noting that his impact transcended his on-the-field play.
"His dedication to the USD community and passion for the game of baseball were evident to all who knew him," the University of San Diego head coach said. "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
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