Famed MLB Pitcher Dies at 37
An eight-year MLB veteran who adopted David “Big Papi” Ortiz’s iconic number has died at 37, the MLB reported on Tuesday. A cause of death has not been announced.
Brian Matusz joined the Baltimore Orioles in 2008, the No. 4 overall pick in that year’s draft, and spent his entire eight-year MLB career playing with the team. He pitched in 279 games with 68 starts from 2009 until 2016. Matusz made just one major appearance playing for another team during his tenure—a three-inning start during the Chicago Cubs’ championship season in July of 2016.
Matusz was actually drafted by the Angels during the 2005 draft, but he dropped out of that obligation to attend the University of San Diego, where he went on to great success paying for the Toreros. He finished his time there as the university’s all-time leader in strikeouts, with a total of 396. In 2008, the year of his graduation, Matusz won the title of West Coast Conference Pitcher of the Year.
“Our hearts are heavy tonight as we mourn the passing of former Oriole, Brian Matusz,” the Orioles said in a statement. “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.”
Our hearts are heavy tonight as we mourn the passing of former Oriole, Brian Matusz.
— Baltimore Orioles (@Orioles) January 8, 2025
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
Matt Hobgood, a right-hander who joined the Orioles shortly after Matusz, also posted a heartfelt tribute to the late legend. “Just heard the news about Brian Matusz passing away this morning. This is awful…he was one of the first people to call me after I signed in ‘09. Took the time to call, encourage me, and wish me well in my career and it always meant a lot that he did that. R.I.P., my friend.”
Just heard the news about Brian Matusz passing away this morning. This is awful…he was one of the first people to call me after I signed in 09’. Took the time to call, encourage me and wish me well in my career and it always meant a lot that he did that. RIP, my friend ????????
— Matt Hobgood (@MattHobgood) January 8, 2025