Former Baltimore Orioles pitcher Brian Matusz dies at 37

BALTIMORE — Brian Matusz, the left-handed pitcher who spent eight seasons within the main leagues, principally with the Baltimore Orioles as they returned to prominence a decade in the past, has died. He was 37.

The Orioles and the College of San Diego introduced Matusz’s demise Tuesday night time, with USD saying it obtained phrase from Matusz’s household. They didn’t announce a explanation for demise, although it occurred in Arizona.

The Phoenix police division confirmed on Wednesday night time that it responded to a lifeless physique name at 2:45 p.m. on Monday and located Matusz. The division mentioned the incident is being dealt with as a demise investigation and the case is pending findings by a health worker.

“Our hearts are heavy tonight as we mourn the passing of former Oriole Brian Matusz,” the Orioles mentioned. “A staple in our clubhouse from 2009-2016, Brian was beloved all through Birdland, and his ardour for baseball and our group was unmatched. He devoted his time to connecting with any fan he might, was a cherished teammate, and at all times had a smile on his face.”

The Orioles drafted Matusz with the fourth total decide in 2008 out of San Diego.

“Brian was among the finest gamers to ever put on a Torero uniform,” San Diego coach Brock Ungricht mentioned. “His dedication to the USD group and keenness for the sport of baseball have been evident to all who knew him. Brian’s sudden passing leaves a void in our hearts, however his legacy will proceed to encourage us, each on and off the sector. We’ll eternally be thankful for his friendship and unwavering assist of San Diego baseball.”

Matusz made his main league debut in 2009 and was a starter till shifting to the bullpen down the stretch in 2012. That was the season Baltimore earned a wild card for its first postseason look in 15 years.

In 2014, Matusz went 2-3 with a 3.48 ERA in 63 aid appearances because the Orioles received the AL East.

Baltimore traded Matusz to Atlanta early within the 2016 season, and he ultimately caught on with the Chicago Cubs, making one begin for them that yr in what could be his last massive league look.