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.
The MLB is mourning Brian Matusz, one of the most accomplished pitchers in Torero baseball history. Tributes pour in honoring his legacy as a standout athlete from the University of San Diego.
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 team, who also shared a statement on their official website, said Matusz was cherished by fans across Birdland. They noted that he had a deep love for both the game of baseball and the community he represented.
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.”
The MLB reflected further on Matusz’s career, highlighting his impressive record of 280 regular-season games, including 69 starts. The athlete played a key role in the Orioles’ Postseason runs in 2012 and 2014, making seven bullpen appearances. Matusz concluded his Major League journey with the Cubs in 2016.
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.
The university also conveyed their sincere sympathies to his family and teammates, both from his time at USD and throughout his career. Massey added, “His heart, passion, and genuine love for the game and his teammates was always felt and will be missed.”
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.
Matusz made history as the first Torero to be named a finalist for the prestigious Golden Spikes Award, which recognizes the top amateur baseball player in the nation. His overall success elevated Toreros to a number four national ranking, the highest in USD history. His achievements are remembered by the baseball community.
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
Baseball player Matt Hobgood has also paid tribute to Matusz, describing his loss as “awful.” Hobgood also recalled Matusz’s kindness, sharing that he was one of the first to reach out to him after he signed in 2009.
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.
