The former Baltimore Orioles pitcher, who played seven seasons with the Major League Baseball (MLB) franchise, passed away on January 7, 2025, at the age of 37.
Brian Matusz of Team New Zealand poses for a photo during the World Baseball Classic Qualifier Headshots at Rod Carew National Stadium in Panama City, Panama, on September 29, 2022 | Source: Getty Images
Roch Kubatko, an MLB Network correspondent, shared the news of Matusz’s death on X, writing, “Very sad to hear that former #orioles pitcher Brian Matusz passed away this morning. Was 37.”
The Baltimore Orioles also grieved his loss via their official X and Instagram accounts, “Our hearts are heavy tonight as we mourn the passing of former Oriole, Brian Matusz.” They described Matusz as a key presence in their clubhouse during his time with the team from 2009 to 2016.
The Orioles highlighted Brian’s commitment to engaging with fans, his valued role as a teammate, and his constant positive attitude. They also shared that their thoughts are with his family and loved ones during this challenging time.
Brian Matusz poses with a young fans, from a post dated January 8, 2025 | Source: Instagram/orioles
Tributes have poured in from across the baseball world, including heartfelt messages from MLB, honoring Matusz’s contributions to the sport.
The MLB official X page shared some of his major achievements on X, “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’s alma mater, the University of San Diego (USD), has also praised his talents and personality. USD Associate Vice President and Executive Director of Athletics, Kimya Massey, noted the deep sadness within the community following Matusz’s passing.
Brian Matusz poses with a young fans, from a post dated January 8, 2025 | Source: Instagram/orioles
Matusz’s tenure with the USD baseball team from 2006 to 2008 solidified his place in the university’s history, marked by outstanding accomplishments. In 2008, he led the National College Athletic Association (NCAA) in strikeouts, a total of 141. He also tied the single-game record with 17 strikeouts against Harvard. To date, he is the program’s all-time leader in career strikeouts, a total of 396.
The athlete also posted a stellar 1.71 earned run average (ERA), which is positioned at fourth all-time in USD single-season history. He then went on to earn West Coast Conference Pitcher of the Year and Louisville Slugger First-Team All-American honors.
Brian Matusz of the Baltimore Orioles celebrates with Caleb Joseph after defeating the New York Yankees during game two of a doubleheader at Oriole Park at Camden Yards in Baltimore, Maryland, on September 12, 2014 | Source: Getty Images
San Diego baseball head coach, Brock Ungricht, has showered him with praises, “Brian was one of the best players to ever wear a Torero uniform.”
He also pointed out Matusz’s unwavering dedication to the USD community and his love for the game. Ungricht added that the athlete’s untimely passing leaves a significant gap but that his legacy will continue to motivate people both on and off the pitch.
Brian Matusz of the Baltimore Orioles in action against the New York Yankees at Yankee Stadium in the Bronx borough of New York City, on September 24, 2014 | Source: Getty Images
He appreciated the gesture, noting how Matusz took the time to offer encouragement and well wishes for his career, which meant a great deal to him. He concluded, “RIP, my friend 🙏🏼.”
Brian Matusz of the Baltimore Orioles pitches against the Seattle Mariners at Oriole Park at Camden Yards in Baltimore, Maryland, on August 2, 2014 | Source: Getty Images
As friends and family mourn his passing, they find solace in knowing that Matusz’s exceptional career, both at USD and in MLB, has left an enduring impact on the sport. His contributions to the game and the memories he created with teammates and fans will be cherished by all who knew him.
