Former Baltimore Orioles pitcher Brian Matusz has died at the age of 37. the club announced Tuesday evening.
The Orioles’ statement reads in full:
“Our hearts are heavy tonight as we mourn the passing of former Oriole, Brian Matusz.
“A fixture 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 every 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 during this difficult time.”
No cause of death has been released.
Matusz, who last appeared in Major League Baseball in 2016, was originally a No. 4 pick by the University of San Diego Orioles in 2008. He reached the majors in 2009 and eventually moved on. part of eight major league seasons with the Orioles. At the end of his career, Matusz made only one appearance with the Chicago Cubs.
During that span, he was 27-41 and posted a career ERA of 4.92 with 462 strikeouts in 528 2/3 innings. Of his 280 games started, 69 were starts. Matusz finished fifth in American League Rookie of the Year voting in 2010 and made seven career playoff appearances for Baltimore.
