Brian Matusz was a left-handed pitcher best known for his years with the Baltimore Orioles in the 2000s and 2010s.
- Died: January 7, 2025 (Who else died on January 7?)
- Details of death: Died at the age of 37.
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Brian Matusz’s legacy
Matusz was a starting pitcher at the University of San Diego before being chosen by the Orioles in the first round of the 2008 MLB draft. His early seasons with the team were strong, and his pitching was one of the key elements in the Orioles’ turnaround from years of losing seasons in the 2000s. By the early 2010s, the team was on its way to a string of playoffs appearances.
However, Matusz began to struggle after a fine start with the team. Initially a starter, he was demoted after injuries and a bout with the yips. He spent the rest of his time with the Orioles mostly in the bullpen, and he was traded to the Atlanta Braves in 2016.
Immediately designated for assignment by the Braves, Matusz ended up with the Chicago Cubs. He largely played as a starter for their minor league teams, though he did pitch a single game with the Cubs in July 2016 as they fought their way to their first World Series win in 108 years. Though he didn’t play in the championship, Matusz earned a World Series ring for being on the team’s roster. In later years, he played for the minor league Arizona Diamondbacks and the independent Long Island Ducks, among other teams.
Tributes to Brian Matusz
Full obituary: The Athletic
