Grand Junction, CO The sports world is mourning the loss of Brian Matusz, a former Major League Baseball (MLB) pitcher who passed away at the age of 37 on January 7, 2025. Matusz, known for his time with the Baltimore Orioles and a brief stint with the World Series-winning Chicago Cubs, left an indelible mark on the baseball community.
Career Highlights:
Born on February 11, 1987, in Grand Junction, Colorado, Matusz’s journey to the majors began at St. Mary’s High School in Phoenix, Arizona. His talent shone brightly at the University of San Diego, where he led the NCAA in strikeouts in 2008, earning him the West Coast Conference Pitcher of the Year and a Golden Spikes Award finalist position.\
Drafted fourth overall by the Orioles in the 2008 MLB Draft, Matusz made his professional debut in 2009, securing a win in his first game. His career spanned eight years, primarily with the Orioles, where he was both a starter and a reliever. Matusz’s standout season was in 2010, where he started 32 games and placed fifth for the AL Rookie of the Year. His career was marked by resilience against injuries, leading to his transition to relief pitching.
Matusz contributed to the Orioles’ postseason appearances in 2012 and 2014. His career stats include 27 wins, 41 losses, a 4.92 ERA, and 462 strikeouts in 280 games. Notably, he ended his MLB tenure with the Cubs in 2016, earning a World Series ring despite appearing in just one game that season. Post-MLB, he played in minor leagues and independent baseball, including stints with the Arizona Diamondbacks, Acereros de Monclova, and Long Island Ducks.
Personal Life:
At the time of his passing, Brian Matusz was not married and did not have any children known to the public. He was remembered not just for his contributions on the field but for his dedication to fans and his warm personality. “He dedicated his time to connecting with any fan he could, was a cherished teammate, and always had a smile on his face,” the Orioles stated in their tribute.
Obituary:
Major League Baseball expressed profound sadness over Matusz’s untimely death. No cause of death has been officially disclosed. The baseball community, fans, and former teammates are sharing memories and condolences, highlighting Matusz’s impact on and off the field.
His legacy includes not only his athletic achievements but also his role as a community figure in Baltimore, where he was known for his engagement and enthusiasm for both the game and those who watched it.
Brian Matusz’s memory will live on through the many lives he touched and the moments he created in the world of baseball.