Baseball world reacts to the sudden passing of Brian Matusz

Brian Matusz died suddenly at age 37

Baltimore Orioles Photo Day
Baltimore Orioles Photo Day | Rob Carr/GettyImages

On Tuesday evening news broke that former Orioles pitcher Brian Matusz had passed away. Matusz spent parts of eight seasons with the Baltimore Orioles and was just 37 years old. His career did not go as hoped but he left a lasting impact on those around him. 

Drafted 4th overall in the 2008 draft by the Orioles out of the University of San Diego, Matusz made quick work of the minor leagues. In 19 starts across three levels Matusz went 11-2 with a sparkling 1.91 ERA before being called up to Baltimore straight from AA. He continued his success in his debut game, just over a year after being drafted. Matusz earned a win by scattering six hits over five innings and struck out five Tigers hitters, including future hall of famer Miguel Cabrera. 

Matusz went 5-2 in 8 starts for the Birds that year and followed that up with a 10 win rookie season in 2010. He finished fifth in rookie of the year voting. Unfortunately Matusz was not able to duplicate the success he had early on as a starter. He struggled through two more seasons in the rotation before being moved to the bullpen. 

Once in the bullpen, Matusz again became a strong option for the Orioles. He pitched in 186 games for the O’s over the next three seasons. His best season as a reliever was 2015 when he had a 2.94 ERA and averaged 10.3 K/9 in 58 appearances. Matusz was traded to the Atlanta Braves in 2016.

The baseball world mourns the passing of former Orioles' starter Brian Matusz

The Braves released Matusz shortly after acquiring him and Matusz was picked up by the Chicago Cubs. He only pitched in one game that season for the Cubs, a game the Cubs won in 12 innings, but it was enough to earn him a World Series ring that season. That was the last major league game Matusz would pitch.

Since the news of Matusz’s sudden passing broke, several of his former teammates and organizations have taken to social media to express their thoughts of Matusz.

Our thoughts and prayers go out to the Matusz family.

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